The worst part about following a stringent eating plan is buying the right items at the grocery store. This is often the case for Whole30. Between planning new meals and reading product labels, it can be discouraging. What’s the solution? A handy little Whole30 cheat sheet. In this piece, we will help you compile the important information you need to succeed with Whole30.
Whole30 Cheat Sheet Guidelines
Of course, top priority when planning for a new diet is knowing what you can and can’t eat. The short of it? Eat real food! Even though Whole30 is technically only intended to last for 30 days, there’s no room for deviation if the plan is to have the desired effects.
Plan your cheat sheet according to the guidelines listed below.
Approved Foods
- Seafood and meat (organic is always best)
- Fruits and veggies
- Natural fats
- Unprocessed foods
Unapproved Foods
- Real or artificial sugar
- Any processed foods (aka, baked or junk foods)
- Alcohol
- Grains (in any form)
- Beans, peanuts or soy (most legumes)
- Sulfites, MSG or carrageenan
And although it’s not a food guideline, per se, you also cannot weigh yourself or take any body measurements for 30 days. Transformation doesn’t happen overnight, so there’s no need to get disheartened when you don’t see instant gratification.
Additives
This category is probably the most tedious. While it’s possible that there are only trace amounts contained in the food product, it is enough to through your body off course. Additives like carrageenan and sulfites are big no-no’s while others like pectin and citric acid are acceptable. Thankfully, Whole30 was nice enough to add their own handy cheat sheet dedicated only to additives. You can find the detailed additive specific cheat sheet on their website.
Whole30 Starter Kit
If you want the ultimate Whole30 cheating opportunity, the plan offers a convenient starter kit via their site. This kit includes a printable version of the program’s rules, a meal-planning template and 15 recipes! That starter kit truly makes it seamless to transition to the diet.
Additional Resources
If you’re still struggling with the plan or would just like a new batch of recipes, the Whole30 site has plenty of support in place. You can order cookbooks or print delicious recipes. On the other hand, you can even find easy Whole30 lunch ideas or meal plans on our HealthHearty site.
Additionally, don’t forget about meal delivery services! These are designed to make your life easier and cut down on meal prep and cooking time. Take advantage of the variety of options with a quick internet search. From entrees to snacks, you’ll be able to find a company that suits your needs and taste buds.
Conclusion
Finally, remember that if Whole30 is proving to be super successful for your body, it doesn’t just have to last for 30 days. Feel free to stay on the plan indefinitely. Or if you do plan to reintroduce foods after the 30-day time period, be sure to do so one food at a time. No matter what, the Whole30 cheat sheet will help you be successful whether you’re new to the plan or just need a quick grocery shopping reference.
