September Whole30: Let’s Do This!
September 1, 2017September Whole30: Week #3 – Halfway!
September 17, 2017Whole30 Promotion Reminder: Spend $150 or more in our store and receive 2 FREE 7 ounce New York Strip Steaks. Use promo code: Whole30BisonSteak to redeem.
Welcome to week two of the #SeptemberWhole30! Congratulations on making it through the first (and probably the hardest) seven days of eating real, whole foods. So how do you feel? Chances are you feel pretty good for making it this far, but also not so great physically – yet. What’s the deal? Well, your body is going through some pretty gnarly stuff right now as it gets rid of all the crap and gets used to all this healthy, whole food. It’s all part of the process and 100% normal. Take a look at the timeline below to see what you can expect coming up.
Whole30 Timeline: Days 1-15
This Whole30 Timeline will outline some of the common feelings you may be experiencing during the first two weeks of your Whole30 journey. Remember, the entire Whole30 community is experiencing similar symptoms and emotions. Knowing why they are happening is the key to staying strong!
Day 1: What’s the Big Deal? On day one of your Whole30 you will probably feel invincible! “Eating real foods for 30 days is easy breezy, I don’t see what the big deal is.” You feel empowered and committed to your new way of eating and nothing will get in your way!
Days 2-3: The Aftermath. Ugh! What is happening? Welcome to the food hangover. If you binged on all your favorites before starting your Whole30, day two is gonna hit you like a ton of bricks – a ton of sugary bricks that is. That’s because your body is working its way through all the glorious junk it’s stored up over the past while. Fatigue, aches, and pains are all normal and depending on your eating habits before, could last anywhere from one day to several. Drink lots of water and be patient.
Days 4-5: Leave Me Alone! You finally start to feel better physically, but all of a sudden everyone and everything are really getting under your skin. Your spouse, your kids, your co-workers, your boss – everyone! Your brain and body are just beginning to realize you aren’t joking. This is actually happening! No cheese, no wine, no ice cream for 30 days. It’s rebelling by taking out its’ anger and frustration on others. Don’t worry, this phase will pass. In the meantime, hunker down with a comforting cup of bone broth or a delicious Whole30 approved dinner and try not to yell at anyone.
Days 6-7: Sleep Please. Your body is waiting for that 3pm sugar fix to give you an extra boost of much needed energy, but with no sugary beverage or candy bar in sight, you are ready for a nap instead. During this phase, your body is learning to use fat and protein as a fuel source instead of simple carbohydrates like sugars or grains. Listen to your body during this time and take it easy in the gym. Give meditation a try or go for a walk instead. (Or, you know, take that nap!)
Days 8-9: Sweatpants All Day! On days 8-9, your clothes may feel tighter. Progress! Yes, you read that right, progress. Your gut, and all the millions of bacteria living in it, are adjusting to the new foods you are eating (i.e. high quality meats, hearty vegetables, fresh fruit, and nuts). This phase may cause some discomfort (AKA bloating and constipation), but it’s all part of the transformation process and it should pass pretty quickly.
Days 10-11: The Toughest Grind. Days 10-11 are the days you are most likely to give up and go back to your old ways of eating. Stay strong and plan accordingly. Remind yourself why you started this journey in the first place, try a new Whole30 approved brand, or read an inspiring Whole30 testimonial from someone like you. Whatever you do, don’t give up, keep going, you can do this because…
Days: 12-15: It Gets Better! You made it through the toughest part and it was worth it because you are finally starting to feel like yourself again – but BETTER. Your clothes are starting to fit better, your energy levels are back, and you’re feeling good. And the best part is, you’re already halfway there!
Whole30 Reminders
Here are some reminders to help you get through week #3 of your September Whole30.
- Remember the Whole30 Program Rules Yes, still no alcohol – Sorry!
- Don’t weigh yourself, we know, it’s tempting, but don’t.
- Download these FREE Whole30 Resources and review.
- Watch your consumption of nuts and fresh fruit as these foods are easy to overeat, especially if you are experiencing a craving for salty foods or a sweet treat. Stock up Whole30 approved snacks instead!
- Sign up for support. Whether you sign up for the Whole30 newsletter, enter the Whole30 Forum, or join the Whole30 daily email, surround yourself with a supportive community that will help inspire and motivate you throughout your September Whole30.
Check back next week for the second half of our Whole30 Timeline Part 2: Days 16-30 and remember, you’ve got this!