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The Whole30® Program

Melissa @Whole9 — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 07:01:31 +0000

Since April 2009, tens of thousands of people have successfully completed our Whole30 program with amazing results. Here are the official program “rules,” and a few resources to help you maximize your Whole30 results.

What is the Whole30®?

Certain food groups (like sugar, grains, dairy and legumes) could be having a negative impact on your health and fitness without you even realizing it. Are your energy levels inconsistent or non-existent? Do you have aches and pains that can’t be explained by over-use or injury? Are you having a hard time losing weight no matter how hard you try? Do you have some sort of condition (like skin issues, digestive ailments, seasonal allergies or fertility issues) that medication hasn’t helped? These symptoms may be directly related to the foods you eat – even the “healthy” stuff. So how do you know if (and how) these foods are affecting you?

Strip them from your diet completely. Cut out all the psychologically unhealthy, hormone-unbalancing, gut-disrupting, inflammatory food groups for a full 30 days. Let your body heal and recover from whatever effects those foods may be causing. Push the “reset” button with your metabolism, systemic inflammation, and the downstream effects of the food choices you’ve been making. Learn once and for all how the foods you’ve been eating are actually affecting your day to day life, and your long term health. The most important reason to keep reading?

This will change your life.

We cannot possibly put enough emphasis on this simple fact – the next 30 days will change your life. It will change the way you think about food, it will change your tastes, it will change your habits and your cravings. It could, quite possibly, change the emotional relationship you have with food, and with your body. It has the potential to change the way you eat for the rest of your life. We know this because we did it, and tens of thousands of people have done it since, and it changed our lives (and their lives) in a very permanent fashion. (Need convincing? Just read some of our stunning testimonials.)

Our Whole30 program, as outlined.

Eat real food – meat, seafood, eggs, tons of vegetables, some fruit, and plenty of good fats from fruits, oils, nuts and seeds. Eat foods with very few ingredients, all pronounceable ingredients, or better yet, no ingredients listed at all because they’re totally natural and unprocessed. Don’t worry… these guidelines are outlined in extensive detail in our Whole30 Success Guide’s shopping list.

More importantly, here’s what NOT to eat during the duration of your Whole30 program. Omitting all of these foods and beverages will help you regain your healthy metabolism, reduce systemic inflammation, and help you discover how these foods are truly impacting your health, fitness and quality of life.

Do not consume added sugar of any kind, real or artificial. No maple syrup, honey, agave nectar, Splenda, Equal, Nutrasweet, xylitol, stevia, etc. Read your labels (and your Success Guide FAQ), because companies sneak sugar into products in ways you might not recognize.

Do not consume alcohol, in any form, not even for cooking. (And it should go without saying, but no tobacco products of any sort, either.)

Do not eat grains. This includes (but is not limited to) wheat, rye, barley, oats, corn, rice, millet, bulgur, sorghum, amaranth, buckwheat, sprouted grains and all of those gluten-free pseudo-grains like quinoa. Yes, we said corn… for the purposes of this program, corn is a grain! This also includes all the ways we add wheat, corn and rice into our foods in the form of bran, germ, starch and so on. Again, read your labels.

Do not eat legumes. This includes beans of all kinds (black, red, pinto, navy, white, kidney, lima, fava, etc.), peas, chickpeas, lentils, and peanuts. No peanut butter, either. This also includes all forms of soy – soy sauce, miso, tofu, tempeh, edamame, and all the ways we sneak soy into foods (like lecithin).

Do not eat dairy. This includes cow, goat or sheep’s milk products such as cream, cheese (hard or soft), kefir, yogurt (even Greek), and sour cream… with the exception of clarified butter or ghee. (See below for details.)

Do not consume carrageenan, MSG or sulfites. If these ingredients appear in any form on the label of your processed food or beverage, it’s out for the Whole30.

Do not eat white potatoes. This is somewhat arbitrary, but if we are trying to change your habits and improve the hormonal impact of your food choices, it’s best to leave white, red, purple, Yukon gold and fingerling potatoes off your plate. (Refer to your Success Guide FAQ for details).

In addition, no Paleo-ifying dessert or junk food choices! We call this “Sex With Your Pants On” (SWYPO), and it will ruin your Whole30 faster than you can say, “Paleo pizza.” Do not try to shove your old, unhealthy diet into a shiny new Whole30 mold. This means no “Paleo-fying” desserts or junk food – no Paleo pancakes, pizza, brownies or ice cream. Trying to replicate junk food with “technically approved” ingredients misses the point of the Whole30 entirely.

One last and final rule. You are not allowed to step on the scale or take any body measurements for the duration of the program. This is about so much more than just weight loss, and to focus on your body composition means you’ll miss out on the most dramatic and lifelong benefits this plan has to offer. So, no weighing yourself, analyzing body fat or taking comparative measurements during your Whole30. (We do encourage you to weigh yourself before and after, however, so you can see one of the more tangible results of your efforts when your program is over.)

The Fine Print

A few concessions, based on our experience, and those of our clients. These foods are exceptions to the rule, and are allowed during your Whole30. Including these foods as part of your varied healthy eating plan should not negatively impact the results of your Whole30 program.

Clarified Butter or Ghee. Clarified butter or ghee is the only source of dairy allowed during your Whole30. Plain old butter is NOT allowed, as the milk proteins found in non-clarified butter could impact the results of your program. Refer to our Butter Manifesto for more details on the milk proteins found in butter, purchasing high quality butter, and how to clarify it yourself.

Fruit juice as a sweetener. Some products will use orange or apple juice as a sweetener. We have to draw the line somewhere, so we’re okay with a small amount of fruit juice as an added ingredient during your Whole30… but this doesn’t mean a cup of fruit juice is a healthy choice! Refer to your Shopping Guide for clarification.

Certain legumes. We’re fine with green beans, sugar snap peas and snow peas. While they’re technically a legume, these are far more “pod” than “bean”, and green plant matter is generally good for you. (Refer to your Success Guide FAQ for details.)

Vinegar. Most forms of vinegar, including white, balsamic, apple cider, red wine, and rice, are allowed during your Whole30 program. The only exceptions are vinegars with added sugar, or malt vinegar, which generally contains gluten.

Processed foods. Minimally processed foods like canned coconut milk, applesauce, tomato sauce, chicken broth or canned olives are all acceptable on the Whole30 – but remember, avoid anything with carageenan, MSG or sulfites. We’ve singled these three additives/preservatives out because they all have potentially nasty side effects – and you can easily find processed foods without them.

Ready to start?

Now that you have the basic plan, you need to know how to implement it. It’s simple, actually. Start now. Today. This minute. Count out thirty days on your calendar. Plan out a week’s worth of meals, using the Resources we’ve given you here. Take our Shopping Guide to your local health food store, farmer’s market or grocer and stock up on things you’ll be eating. And then… go. Cold turkey. Just start, using our Success Guide’s meal planning template to take all the guesswork out of meals. But don’t put this off, not for one more day. If you give yourself excuses or reasons to delay, you may never begin. Do it now.

Your only job for the next 30 days is to focus on making good food choices. You don’t need to weigh or measure, you don’t need to count calories, you don’t need to stress about organic, grass-fed, pastured or free range. Just figure out how to stick to the Whole30 in any setting, around every special circumstance, under any amount of stress… for the next 30 days. Your only job? Eat. Good. Food.

The only way this will work is if you give it the full thirty days, no cheats, slips or “special occasions.” This isn’t Whole9 playing the tough guy. This is a FACT, born of education and experience. You need such a small amount of any of these inflammatory foods to break the healing cycle – one bite of pizza, one splash of milk in your coffee, one lick of the spoon mixing the batter within the 30 day period and you’ve broken the “reset” button. You must commit to the full program, exactly as written. Anything less and we make no claims as to your results, or the chances of your success. Anything less and you are selling yourself – and your potential results – short.

It’s only 30 days.

Here’s what you can expect.

The first week or two will be tough, as your body heals and adjusts to this new way of eating and your brain wraps itself around going without all those sweet tastes and sugar-driven energy spikes. And while you may start to feel better after a week or two… the healing process takes significantly longer. In addition, the mental addiction and emotional connections to sugary foods, large amounts of processed carbohydrates and over-the-top, chemically-altered flavors is going to take a lot longer to overcome.

Stick with it, and be patient with yourself. You cannot reasonably expect to completely reverse decades of poor eating habits in just 30 days. The good news, however, is that improvements are front-loaded, and you will start to see significant benefits within the month.

At some point, we promise you… the magic will happen. You’ll go to sleep easier, and sleep more soundly through the night. Your energy levels will increase and stabilize, and you’ll feel just as good first thing in the morning as you do at the peak of your day. Your body composition will start to change – your clothes will fit differently, and you’ll feel less bloated at the end of your day. Your performance, whether it be in the gym, while playing sports or during a hike, will improve. Your recovery after exercise, a game or a hard day’s work will feel easier and more complete. Conditions, ailments, aches and pains will miraculously start to improve. And through all of it, you’ll be eating delicious, fresh, natural, real food… food that tastes good, and is physically satiating and mentally satisfying.

Refer to our Success Guide FAQ for more details about what to expect, or if you find yourself in a rough patch during your Whole30.

It’s for your own good.

Here comes the tough love. This is for those of you who are considering taking on this life-changing month, but aren’t sure you can actually pull it off, cheat free, for a full 30 days. This is for the people who have tried this before, but who “slipped” or “fell off the wagon” or “just HAD to eat (fill in food here) because of this (fill in event here).” This is for you.

It is not hard. Don’t you dare tell us this is hard. Quitting heroin is hard. Beating cancer is hard. Drinking your coffee black. Is. Not. Hard. You won’t get any coddling, and you won’t get any sympathy for your “struggles”. YOU HAVE NO EXCUSE not to complete the program as written. It’s only thirty days, and it’s for the most important health cause on earth – the only physical body you will ever have in this lifetime.

Don’t even consider the possibility of a “slip”. Unless you physically tripped and your face landed in a box of doughnuts, there is no “slip”. You make a choice to eat something unhealthy. It is always a choice, so do not phrase it as if you had an accident. Commit to the program 100% for the full 30 days. Don’t give yourself an excuse to fail before you’ve even started.

You never, ever, ever HAVE to eat anything you don’t want to eat. You’re all big boys and girls. Toughen up. Learn to say no (or make your Mom proud and say, “No, thank you”). Learn to stick up for yourself. Just because it’s your sister’s birthday, or your best friend’s wedding, or your company picnic does not mean you have to eat anything. It’s always a choice, and we would hope that you stopped succumbing to peer pressure in 7th grade.

This does require a bit of effort. If you’re cutting out grains, legumes and dairy for the first time, you have to replace those calories with something. You have to make sure you’re eating enough, that your nutrients are plentiful, that you’re getting enough protein, fat and carbohydrates. You’ll have to figure out what to eat for lunch, how to order at a restaurant and how often you’ll need to grocery shop. We’ve given you all the tools, guidelines and resources you’ll need in this Success Guide, but take responsibility for your own plan. Improved health and fitness doesn’t happen automatically just because you’re now taking a pass on bread.

You can do this. You’ve come too far to back out now. You want to do this. You need to do this. And we believe that you can do this. So stop thinking about it, and start doing. Right now, this very minute, tell someone that you are starting the Whole30. Tell your spouse, tell your best friend, commit on our Whole30 forum and prove to us – and yourself – that you are committed.

In conclusion…

We want you to participate. We want you to take this seriously, and see amazing results in unexpected areas. Even if you don’t believe this will actually change your life, if you’re willing to give it 30 short days, do it. It is that important. We believe in it that much. It changed our lives, and we want it to change yours too.

There are plenty of “nutrition challenges” and 30 day plans out there – things that sound a lot like the Whole30, that promise you’ll lose weight, have more energy, feel better. They give you more of what you want – arbitrary points for eating junk food, or an exercise penance for cheating, or acceptable alcohol choices “if you must drink”.

But here at Whole9, we’ve built our entire business around telling you what you need, not what you want. We will not pander to you here. We will tell you what we know to be true, based on literally thousands of testimonials and consulting clients’ real results. Programs that offer built-in cheats or rationalizations for less than healthy food choices simply do not work long-term. They don’t help you reach optimal health, they don’t teach you anything about how the foods you are eating are affecting you, and they don’t help you change your habits, patterns and behaviors in the long run. The Whole30 program has been in motion for almost three years, with participants all across the world – and has measurable, real-life, sustainable results to back up our claims.

Welcome aboard.

Questions?

While most folks can follow the program exactly as outlined here with spectacular results, you’ve got two options if you need a little more help with your Whole30, or simply want to maximize your results.

Purchase our expanded and revised 85-page Whole30 Success Guide, which includes (in part) a detailed shopping list, meal planning template, an extensive FAQ, over 40 delicious Whole30-approved recipes, a 7-day meal plan, and a guide to help you manage the first 10 days after your Whole30.

Participate in our Whole30 forum. This is where you join the program, introduce yourself to our community, and get all of the answers, support, motivation and accountability you’ll need to rock your Whole30 program.

To download a PDF version of our Whole30® Program

Click here for a printable copy of the Whole30 program, exactly as written above.

To download the Whole30 en Español

NEW! Click here for a printable copy of the Whole30 program in Spanish!

Looking for our official list of Whole30 Approved foods?

NEW! Click here for a current list of Whole30-Approved snacks and other on-the-go foods.

Join our Facebook discussions

Join the current discussions on health, fitness and off-topic fun and become a “fan” of our Whole9 and Whole30 Facebook pages – and follow us on Twitter, too (@whole9life).

Want to fly your Whole30 flags high and proud?

Copy and paste this code to display our Whole30 graphic on your web site or blog:

You’ve earned it! Copy and paste this code to display our Whole30 graphic on your page:

You’re Invited… to the Whole30 Wrap Party

Melissa @Whole9 — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 12:00:55 +0000

Congratulations! Your Whole30 is officially over – not that you have to run right out and dive into a box of donuts, of course. Whether it’s your first, second or tenth Whole30, today’s post is for you – part homework and part sound-off.

Homework #1: Take a Picture

First, our newest initiative. They say a picture is worth 1,000 words, so we’re gathering photos to document your Whole30 achievements. It’s simple:

Write your accomplishment(s) on a 8-1/2 x 11 piece of paper (held horizontally) with a bright, bold marker.

Keep it short (and legible). Statements like “I lost 16 pounds,” “No more seasonal allergies!” or “I’m off my diabetes medication” work well.

Take a photo of you holding your sign, from the waist up. (Don’t forget to SMILE!)

Email your photo to us (whole30@whole9life.com) – and feel free to post it to our Whole30 Facebook page (http://facebook.com/whole30).

If we receive your photo by February 28, 2012, you’ll be entered to win our drawing for a FREE iPad2!

So get to snappin’, because you never know who YOU will inspire with your Whole30 Success Story.

Homework #2: Share Your Story

Additional assignments… because we’d REALLY like to hear about your Whole30 results. Please take a few minutes to contribute your story to:

Our ONE QUESTION Whole30 weight loss survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/whole30weightloss

Our Whole30 A-Z testimonial post: http://whole9life.com/2011/06/the-whole30-a-z-real-life-testimonials/

Link to your own wrap-up blog post here in comments, so we can ALL read about your Whole30 experience – lessons learned, results achieved, and “go-forward” plans.

Homework #3: Prepare For Your Whole9 Life

Next assignment – please read these articles to help you prepare a plan to reintroduce some of those foods you think you’ve been missing. These resources (along with the Reintroduction Schedule and Life After Your Whole30 sections of your Whole30 Success Guide) will help you make the most of your 30 days, and figure out once and for all how the foods you used to eat are actually affecting you.

Ride Your Own Bike. When should your Whole30 program come to an end?

Life After Your Whole30.Whole30 participants offer tips and tricks for YOUR Day 31.

It’s Our Own Darn Program. Melissa and Dallas analyze one of their Whole30 experiences.

The Whole9 Guide to Eating Dirty, Part I. Is there really a valid scientific reason to “cheat”?

The Whole9 Guide to Eating Dirty, Part II. How to “cheat smart”, and not go off the rails.

The Whole9 Guide to Nutritional Off-Roading. We’ll help you determine when it’s really worth it.

Homework #4: Show Off!

Finally, fly your Whole30 flag high and proud with these awesome graphics.

You’ve earned it! Copy and paste this code to display our Whole30 graphic on your page:

And if you want a large size graphic for your new Facebook layout, you can download it right HERE!

So congratulations on a Whole30 well done from Dallas, Melissa and the Whole9 team. (And be sure to stick around, because we’ve got tons of good lifestyle information to share on the 9Blog.)

The Whole30™ A-Z: Real Life Testimonials

Melissa @Whole9 — Mon, 13 Jun 2011 11:00:21 +0000

In this post, we’ll be listing (and constantly updating) real life testimonials from people who have experienced life-changing results from their Whole30™ program. From asthma to blood pressure to circulation to diabetes, we’re sharing Whole30 results here, all in one spot, to motivate, inspire and encourage someone (maybe even you) to give the program a shot.

Our list is far from complete – we’ve got a pile of emails, posts and comments to go through, so we’ll be adding more and more quotes over the course of the next few weeks. Want to contribute your own story to our list? Submit your results as related to a specific condition, symptom, disease or affliction (including your first name, last initial and city/state) to whole30@whole9life.com.

Thank you for reading, for forwarding, for participating and most of all, for helping to create the kind of sharing, giving community we have here at Whole9.

A

Acid Reflux

“I have been dealing with acid reflux since 2008. Since doing the Whole 30 I have had no reflux at all and can eat all the foods that would give me reflux before with no problems at all – even green peppers, tomato, raw carrots and raw broccoli.” Amy Honeycutt, Dobson, NC

“I started the Whole30 at 218lbs, 37 inch waist, and no energy. I also started the with over 8 years of acid reflux medication under my belt. I was up to 40-60mg of Prilosec/Omeprazole to rid myself of heartburn symptoms. I could not (prior to the Whole30) skip one dose of my medication without experiencing severe heartburn. Also prior to the program, I was also experiencing recurrent joint pain, specifically in my hands and hips. After just 30 days, I now weigh 199lbs, my waist is at 34 inches, I have not taken a single dose of my medication for the entire program, and I have absolutely no hand or hip pain. And the interesting part – I did not exercise. I lost 19lbs, 3 inches off my waist and didn’t exercise a bit. –Jeremy M, Eagle River, AK

Acne

Read Judy’s story here: http://whole9life.com/2011/03/whole30-acne-judys-story/

See Sabrina’s photo documentary here: http://sabrinabeans.blogspot.com/2011/05/whole30-summary-in-pictures.html

“After taking medicine for years to combat adult acne – which was bad enough that my wife went to the Mayo Clinic seeking relief – both of us are off all our medication, and our skin has never looked better.” Brian C., Burnsville, MN

“Finished my first Whole30 yesterday, and I feel great. I lost 7 pounds, and my skin looks fantastic. I’ve had acne since the 5th grade, and my face hasn’t been this clear since then. I just cannot express how incredibly happy I am for doing this. Many people that I’ve talked to about this keep calling it a diet, but the Whole30 is so totally not a diet. I know this sounds lame, even after so many other people have expressed similar sentiments, but it is life changing. These 30 days have been life altering and awesome.” -Hilary L., Platteville, WI

Allergies (Food)

“I have more allergies to more things than anyone I have ever met. In addition to pretty much every pollen out there, corn, soy, and wheat, I have oral allergies to pretty much all raw fruits, vegetables, and nuts. When I eat them, my mouth/head/throat gets itchy. If I continued to eat them, hello anaphylactic shock! (During the Whole30), my selection of safe raw fruits and veggies expanded exponentially. I went from pretty much lettuce being the only safe thing, to being able eat apples, oranges, all manner of berries, carrots, peppers, hazelnuts, spinach, cabbage, and so on. After not being able to have them for years and years, I am downright rabid with excitement.” Kim C., Helena, MT

Allergies (Seasonal)

“My wife and I have had terrible seasonal allergies for several years. Now, our allergies have all disappeared. We are off all allergy meds – which we used to take like candy. As for our 4 year old daughter, we are two weeks into her Whole30, and I am amazed to report that her allergy symptoms are virtually gone. No sneezing. No runny nose. After taking both a pill and nose spray for much of her 4 years of life, her allergy symptoms are better now than they have ever been.” Brian C., Burnsville, MN

Anemia

“I just finished the Whole30! My purpose for doing it started with the discovery that I have severe anemia. My HGB levels were 8.3 gm/dl (normal range is 12-16). In just 30 days on your program, I am up to 11.8! I can only imagine what the next few months will bring.” Virginia C., Orange County, CA

Arthritis

“I’ve had rheumatoid arthritis since childhood. As a waitress, I used to get to the end of the day and my feet, knees, and hips would hurt so much. My joints were always swollen and stiff, and I’ve tried numerous medications that failed to provide relief. After my Whole30, I was completely pain-free for the first time since diagnosis. My joint stiffness and swelling were gone, I was able to go off my medication and I no longer hurt after a long day on my feet. And I’ve been able to maintain my pain-free status, as long as I stay compliant with the Whole9 way of eating.” Amber H., Kelowna, BC

“I have suffered with osteoarthritis of my knees and hips for several years due to being an overweight runner, CrossFitter and plyo jumper. During the last 6 months I have moved to only working out with kettlebells and practicing Bikram yoga to reduce impact on joints. I started my Whole30 on April 25th. I have seen a 75% improvement in pain and inflammation in my knee in just the last month. I have not had to take any anti-inflammatories during this time. I think I may be able to cure myself with this way of eating!” Shellene M., Mobile, Alabama

Asthma

“I have been a lifelong acute asthmatic. Hundreds of ER visits, hospitalizations and so forth. It was around week 2 (of my Whole30) when my miracle happened. I went out for a warm up 400M run – something I dread every day, and something I have never been able to do. But it was during this run where there was suddenly a feeling like I had legs (and lungs) of a gazelle. I had never felt this in a 33 years. So much so that I voluntarily went on another run…and another. In the time that I began the Whole 30 (on October 4^th) to the current date (December 15^th), I have been un-medicated for the first time in my life. I would normally have to take 4-5 control medications, and my inhaler multiple times a day. It is something miraculous to feel life as you have never known it.” Andrea B., Minneapolis, MN

Autism

See Nicole’s story here: http://whole9life.com/2012/02/the-whole30-and-pdd/

B

Behavior Issues (Kids)

“Before the Whole30, our 6 year old son would get angry very quickly, go into rages, act aggressively and would generally get out of control when he was angry. It was awful to see our sweet little boy literally out of control and furious. Once our family started the Whole30, within days, his behavior began to change. We noticed he was calmer, less aggressive, would take longer to get angry, etc. Now that the Whole30 is over, he is a much happier child. The change in his behavior and general demeanor is amazing. He’s had a complete turn-around, and we attribute this incredible change to the Whole30.” –Emma C., Raleigh NC

Bipolar Disorder

“One of the things that has been so dramatic for me is that I was diagnosed a few years ago with ADHD and bipolar disorder. I am completely symptom free, meds free, from those when I eat this way (Whole30). The thing about bipolar disorder is that it does run in cycles, so some people do really great for a while and then really horrible for a while, etc. However, my family and friends can attest to the fact that I am JUST FINE today… without any medication at all.” B.M., location withheld for privacy

Blood pressure

“I have been on blood pressure and cholesterol medicine since my 20’s. With meds, my blood pressure would held around 130/90, and my cholesterol could be kept under 200. After my Whole30, my blood pressure was 115/70, and cholesterol was down to 140. My biggest noted difference was I had a much more consistent energy level throughout the day, and my hands were no longer swollen every morning.” Dianna B., Albuquerque, NM

“(Kevin) started this whole thing at nearly 300 pounds, on cholesterol and high blood pressure meds. He is now in the 260s, which he hasn’t been in over a decade. His adherence to the Whole30 has not only helped him drop all his medications and decrease his weight, but inspired and enabled a better-is-better attitude to permeate his whole life.” Kevin K., Baltimore, MD (as submitted by his sister)

“My family has a history of high blood pressure, which I was beginning to see play out in my life before I made the switch (to the Whole30). My normal BP went from 140/100 to 116/76 in a month – and stayed there.” Jesse R., Nashville, TN

“My husband’s blood pressure has gone from 140/90 to 90/60.” Julie F., Portland, OR

C

Celiac Disease

“I was diagnosed with Celiac Sprue in 1992, so I’ve been gluten-free since then. Because of the trauma to my gut, I developed other food sensitivities and environmental sensitivities as well. I learned to deal with them and be reasonably active, but I had reoccurring bouts of months of intestinal bloating and debilitating fatigue. I was trying all sorts of probiotics, digestive enzymes, nothing was helping. Then I stumbled across the Whole30. The bloating was gone in a few days, and has not returned. I noticed improved energy/stamina and clearer thinking. My environmental reactions aren’t as severe. For someone with Celiac Sprue, this way of eating provides OPTIMAL wellness.” Sandy H., Middleport, NY

Cholesterol

“My husband had struggled with high cholesterol for four years, and was about to go back on statin drugs. I pleaded with him to give the Whole30 a try with me for the month of January 2012. We did the Whole30 together, and my husband retook his cholesterol test at the end of the month. His numbers dropped from 250 to 189 (down 61 points) in just 30 days! We also lost a combined weight of 35 lbs in just one month. This lifestyle has changed our lives drastically in so many ways!” -Jackie R., Richmond Hill, GA

“Besides losing 15 pounds, the most notable result from my Whole30 program is that my cholesterol dropped 37 points, from 233 to 196 in just six weeks! Prior to doing the Whole30, my doctor had wanted me to start taking prescription cholesterol medication. I’m happy that I did not have to do that!” Derek S., Minneapolis, MN

“My 58 year old dad has lowered his cholesterol almost 30 points, was taken off one of the blood pressure medications he has been on for ten years, and lost 13 lbs on his Whole30.” Amy Honeycutt, Dobson, NC

“Total cholesterol pre-Whole30: 213; post-Whole30: 185 (down 28 points). LDL pre-Whole30: 106; post-Whole30: 92 (down 14 points).” Jill G., Fort Worth, TX

“I had high LDL, high TG (triglycerides), low HDL, and small particle size LDL. After my Whole30 (about a year later), I got LipoScience to do all my labwork. Wow! Triglycerides plummeted, HDL went up, and LDL dropped 20 mg/dl. Plus I now have the larger, puffier LDL particles. And now my risk of diabetes is really low! Thank you so much!” Giovanni de Matteis, Raleigh, NC

“Cholesterol went down by 70 points. (Not to mention my mild depression/anxiety is gone, moods definitely improved, itchy ear cleared up, strange tenderness in upper left calf that I’ve had for 15+ years is gone, exercise induced asthma is gone, and I have no allergies this season.) LOVE IT!” Mary B., Portland, OR

Circulation

“During my Whole42 (6 weeks), I noticed a marked improvement in my circulation. I’ve always had circulation issues, even when I’m active. My feet will turn blue, my hands will go numb, etc., if I sit or stand still too long, and sometimes even when I’m walking. By the end of the 6 weeks, I didn’t notice these circulation issues any longer, and that was just with clean eating and daily walking- no extensive exercise, which is what it usually takes to keep my circulation normal.” Jean A., Stillwater, OK

Cravings

“This program has shown results that I didn’t think were possible. Prior to Whole30 I recognized that I had severe difficulties dealing with food cravings and knowing when to stop eating. Daily I asked myself, ‘How can I get these urges under control? Why do I feel like I NEED these bad foods? Where should I go for help?’ Whole30 is the answer. I haven’t felt the deep desire to pig out that I used to experience since I’ve submerged myself into this program. I don’t feel like I have to struggle to make decisions when trying to decide what to eat. It’s as simple as knowing that what I have been eating is beneficial to me, and that is how I will continue to nourish myself.” Mr. Hummer, Whole9 web site

“I finally came to realize that I have an addiction to carbs and sugar. Prior to this, I had never heard of Whole30 or Paleo. By the second week of my Whole30, my cravings had leveled off and I noticed some small changes – my stomach didn’t hurt like it used to, I wasn’t bloated all the time, and I discovered that I really didn’t miss most of the things that I had eliminated from my diet. Fast forward to day 30 and I can honestly say that I feel fantastic! I am so amazed at what 30 days has done. My skin is the clearest it has ever been, my stomach issues have resolved, I am no longer lethargic all of the time and I feel that I have beaten my carb and sugar addiction! My clothes are looser and I feel so happy! I am so proud of myself for sticking with this.” –Mindy N., Pensacola, FL

Crohn’s Disease

“I was in so much pain that I couldn’t stand up straight. Every time I ate something, it hurt. I ended up in the emergency room while on vacation when I could no longer keep food down. After 3 days of tests they decided I probably had Crohn’s. I had surgery the next day to remove 2.5 feet of my intestines, including part of my colon (1999). At this point I only weighed 85 lbs. The surgery did relieve the severe pain, however, I still dealt with intestinal spasms, and gut pain sometimes after eating. I completed my first Whole 30 in March 2010. Through the process, the intestinal pain, gas, and bloating went away. My energy levels have improved as well as my attitude and outlook on life.” Sarah G., Fort Collins, CO

D

Depression

See Jane’s story here: http://whole9life.com/2011/12/whole30-depression/

“In the spring, I had a severe relapse of depression–my worst so far. I had to go on a whole bunch of different things to supplement the Prozac I’ve been on for a while – Remeron (an antidepressant), Klonopin (for anxiety), and Trazodone (for sleep), which made me sicker than anything I’ve taken, ever. In June, I started dealing with some alarming side effects, including a constant feeling that I was on the verge of passing out. Since my Whole30 program, I’ve been able to stop taking everything other than the Prozac. Not only do I feel the best I’ve ever felt, I also had zero negative side effects from *stopping* the Remeron–a drug that has a reputation for being tough to withdraw from. (I didn’t even do a gradual withdrawal, which is recommended.) I also went off of the Klonopin and the sleep meds. My energy level is high, I’m sleeping well, my skin is the clearest it’s ever been, and my mood is definitely more stable. I was tremendously impressed by the Whole30 program.” Alice B., Brooklyn, NY

“I was stuck in the cycle of napping mid-day (for hours), depression, drinking a bottle of wine at a time with my friend, taking Wellbutrin and just feeling bloated, fat, tired and miserable. I decided to do the Whole30 again. Today, my clients tell me how obvious it is that I love what I do, that I’m so positive and happy and have so much energy. Who? ME? Yes, me. I am a different person eating this way. I’m happy, I smile at people, I laugh and feel so wonderful. I wake up ready to go, I’m thinking about dating again, my skin is clear, and I’ve lost inches. I don’t take Wellbutrin anymore and don’t need to. You have changed my life in more ways than you know.” –Erica E., Boston MA

Diabetes (Type 1)

See Meggie’s story here: http://whole9life.com/2011/03/the-whole30-type-1-diabetes/

“During and following our family’s Whole30, my son Jeremiah’s numbers are completely under control… and they never have been before. His numbers normally jump from low extremes to high extremes without any reason, and without anything we knew to do about it. It’s been very frustrating, but now, his numbers are PERFECT. The week before our Whole30 started we saw Jeremiah’s endocrinologist, and these are some of the numbers we showed her: 214, 37, 117, 279, 411, 279, 36, 57, 26, 43, 139, 276, 235, 253, 53, 376, 411, 173, 124, 204. Here are some numbers from our Whole30: 121, 136, 121, 84, 78, 70, 128, 81, 141, 119, 133, 85, 117, 95, 128, 102, 107, 112, 88, 107, 102. I can’t fully put into words how amazing this transformation has been. Instead of feeling like this Whole30 has put restrictions on us, I feel like we can BREATHE. I now KNOW without a doubt that Jeremiah’s body is working the best it can and that I am doing my job as his mom to keep it that way.” Jacque G. (Read Jeremiah’s whole story here.)

Diabetes (Type 2)

“Just finished my Whole30, and my blood sugar levels are now normal – COMPLETELY normal. My blood pressure is in the normal range now and staying. and have cut my diabetes meds in half. The pain, stiffness, soreness and “puffiness” is gone… and I lost about 25 pounds. I was sick and tired of being sick and tired. Now life is a wonderful thing that I get to wake up to every morning. The Whole30 has changed my outlook on many things. It has changed my life.” Alan H., East Bremerton, WA

“I read up on the Whole30 after our Whole9 workshop and decided to participate. I have Type 2 diabetes and after hearing about the effects of medicine I was taking, decided that I wanted to stop my meds. Day 4: I am monitoring my sugar regularly. Started off with 164, then 155, and this AM it was 135 without meds. Day 5: started out really good. My sugar was down to 109 – in the normal range! Day 6: feel better than yesterday. Sugar still low at 113 which is great. Can’t believe how fast it’s gone down with this change and no meds! Day 10: sugar was down to all time low of 104… yay! Back on track of low sugar with no meds!… I completed my Whole30 and lost about 6 pounds… but the best part for me was feeling healthier, dropping a pant size, AND controlling my sugar levels without medication!” Maricel, as posted on the Whole9 web site

E

Eating Disorders

“Over the years I’ve gone from one diet or plan to another. This viscous cycle turned into major body issues and an eating disorder. I was so fixated on food that I lost touch with the real reason we eat and I got so obsessive about being rail thin. The Whole30 has been a huge part of my transformation in the fact that it has changed my relationship with food. I eat to fuel my body now and I WANT to eat good foods that will fuel it properly. I no longer struggle with binging and this is no longer a diet to me but just the way I prefer to eat. My nasty sugar tantrums are gone as well! That was probably one of my biggest issues when I struggled with the eating disorder. I had so much trouble with sugar and now I don’t want it at all.” Elise H., Whole9 web site

“I have had trouble in the past with an eating disorder, and any diet scares me. I don’t want to become obsessed with the way I am eating like I was before. I had less trouble with the Whole30 than I have had before. I didn’t focus on food every second of the day; I didn’t start to hate myself more as pounds dropped away. For the first time, I was able to remain rational about my body while following a food plan. That really might be the biggest benefit I have gotten from the Whole30.” Kelly E., Marietta, GA

“I was addicted to sugar. I was even seeing a counselor for compulsive overeating. The Whole30 broke my sugar addiction and changed my life!” Sara A., Holmen, WI

Eczema

“The Whole30 had a significant impact on my eczema, which I had struggled with for years. As a result of the program, I found that I was gluten intolerant. Now that I am off gluten the eczema is gone. Thank you for your program!!!” Chad McCall, Austin, TX

“My eczema cleared up SUBSTANTIALLY after the Whole30. I went from the strongest steroid topical ointment to just plain old Aquaphor (moisturizer) which is amazing – especially during this time of year. Seasonal allergies used to be murder on my poor skin! LOVE it!!” Orleatha S., Southern CA

“I have suffered with skin ailments most of my life. This year, my eczema got worse, and I developed into full blown psoriasis. I was put on prescription creams, which initially made it better, but then symptoms would flare up again even worse. When I started the Whole30, my patches were cracked, bleeding, and terribly painful. But just 30 days later, they are 100% gone! No special creams (I stopped using them), no gloves for hand-washing. The only change is that I stopped eating a Standard American Diet, and started the Whole30!” –Amy C., Barrhaven, Ontario

Endometriosis

“Since the Whole30, my endometriosis symptoms and pain have decreased dramatically, almost to the point of non-existence. Thanks Whole9, you guys rock!” Jill J., Salt Lake City, UT

“Since starting Whole30 in September 2011, I have been medication free for endometriosis and ulcerative colitis. Never would I have imagined changing my diet would change my life, inside and out.” Heather S., Dayton OH

Essential Tremor

(Read more about essential tremor here.) “After about a week and a half on my Whole30, I noticed the shaking in my hands had gone away. I was blown away and could not figure out why this was happening. I’ve had this condition since I was 20 years old and everything I was told to try to make it go away never worked. This was completely astonishing for me and a life changing moment… My hands have stabilized and are now rock steady. I thought I should share this information as it has completely changed the way I eat and how I will eat for the rest of my life.” TJ F., Portland, OR

Eustacian Tube Dysfunction

“I have a laundry list of health benefits I’ve discovered from my three Whole30s. The inflammation in my body has gone down so much that my allergies, sinus troubles and eustachian tube dysfunction have simply disappeared – which means I can now fly again! My ears will finally pop as the plane is descending and I no longer leave the airport with 48 hours worth of vertigo, nausea and vomiting. I am immensely grateful for this new knowledge and this amazing community. The Whole30 has completely changed my whole life!” –Jeni, Paleomaha.com

F

Fibromyalgia

“The thought of resetting my system so it didn’t crave (sugar/carbs) was my original (Whole30) motivation. I had NO CLUE that God would use the Whole30 to bring total healing to my physical and mental ailments! By my third and fourth weeks, I was completely pain free. I was even working out in the gym, which I had not been able to do for years because of the fibromyalgia pain. All of my joint pain, bone pain, and muscle pain was GONE. My mind was clear. I was focused. I had gone off of the meds a couple of years ago because of negative side effects. Now I had all the clarity and body-comfort of the meds without having to use them at all! I also happened to lose 14.8 pounds and kick my cravings, but those were minor compared to having complete relief from all of the other issues.” Bethann M., Pleasant Lake, IN

“I went to a nutritionist because I was having major health issues – fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, chronic pain. I was born with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, a collagen defect where my joints can hyper-extend and dislocate. I was told it would only get worse with age, that I could never exercise, and that I would always be in pain. I was on a very high dose of an antidepressant and a painkiller, and my health and mental state were so bad that I had to take medical leave from school and work. Then, I discovered the Whole30. My energy levels soared! I was working out, recovering well and steadily weaning myself off the meds. Today, I no longer suffer from any fibromyalgia symptoms, no joint pain, no fatigue. The Whole30 cured my fibromyalgia, and I am less flexible – something medicine said would never happen. I am off all those meds and the freedom I feel is unbelievable. On top of that I lost 6.5” in 30 days, down from a size 10 to a size 6/8.” -Dana C., San Francisco, CA

G

Gastro-Esophogeal Reflux Disorder (GERD)

“By the end of the first week of my Whole30, I realized that the GERD symptoms that I have had for literally years had simply stopped! I have taken acid blockers on a daily basis for years (Famotadine, Prevacid). If I forgot to take the daily dose, the symptoms of reflux, up to and including aspiration while sleeping, would soon let me know. All I can say is that I am no longer taking the acid blockers at all… and the symptoms are gone!” John, Eugene, OR

“The Whole30 cured my GERD (acid reflux). I’ve had issues with my stomach since high school, but during my 30 days, I was able to wean myself off of my high dosage of Nexium without getting horribly sick like before.” Kassandra M., Arlington, VA

Gout

“I have boundless amounts of energy and a spring in my step; no more limp. I am completely off my gout meds! I have been eating large amounts of foods that, according to my doctor, are no-no’s for gout. Before the Whole30, if I had eaten the amount of shrimp, cauliflower and broccoli that I am now, I would be in a full-blown attack with enormous amounts of pain. Guess what? NO GOUT, NO PAIN!!!!” Alan H., E. Bremerton, WA

H

Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis

“After the 30 days at my thyroid checkup, my doctor and I were happy to see that all antibodies pointing to Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis were gone; he credits the diet and supplements I take.” Kelly E., Marietta, GA

Hidradenitis Suppurativa

“I have a skin condition called hidradenitis suppurativa. It’s not as bad as what I’ve heard some people have, but it’s not pleasant. I’m happy to say that I haven’t had a flare up once since my Whole30! It’s been more than seven months now, and I credit this way of eating for sure!” -Erica E, Boston MA

Hives

“For the past four-plus years, I have had these weird hives that were super itchy that would randomly break out all over my body. Couldn’t figure out why… neither could the allergist. He just gave up and put me on meds – but I took myself off those months and months ago. GUESS WHAT!!! Noooo moooore hives (after my Whole30)!!!” Cait F., High Falls, NY

I

Interstitial Cystitis

“Six years ago, I was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease called interstitial cycstitis, characterized by chronic pain in the bladder. Doctors told me that my only option was to live with it, and take medication. A year ago I found the Whole30… and today I feel great. The best part? Today I’m pain and pill free.” Hannah A., via video submission

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

“After a few weeks (on the Whole30) I began to notice some changes. I could eat foods like broccoli and eggs again without any major digestion upset and having fewer IBS attacks and spasms. And just before the end of the first 30 days, I stopped taking my last antibiotic.” Elise H., Whole9 web site

Infertility

See Kristyn’s story here: http://whole9life.com/2011/02/infertility-kristyns-story/

J

Joint Pain

“I am a fitness instructor, and the Whole30 has changed my life as well as those in my fitness classes (Zumba). I’ve had joint issues from overuse and tremendous knee pain. Since doing the Whole30, my knees hardly ever hurt. I can squat below parallel again (yay)! I have increased my weight on all my lifts and I have never felt stronger or with as much energy. As an instructor, it has boosted my confidence and made me feel like I really am living what I am teaching. Now many of my students are in the middle of their first Whole30 and they’re loving it. Thank you for bringing this to us!” Nancy S., Puyallup, WA

L

Lupus

“I was 19 when I was diagnosed with my first autoimmune disease – a rare condition called autoimmune hepatitis. Then 7 years later, I was diagnosed with lupus. I had all telltale signs – rash on the face, mouth sores, fatigue, hair falling out, swollen painful joint, shortness of breath. Then, my kidneys started to fail, and I was diagnosed with lupus-induced swelling of the brain. I started my first chemo treatments, reached remission, then came out of remission in 2010. Nothing worked – I was heading towards dialysis and more chemo. During all of these years I gained weight from the steroids, and my legs were was so full of water my skin would crack. This is when my cousin told me about the Whole30, and how it helped her arthritis. In the first week, my pulse fell from 98 to 78. The water pills couldn’t get the water out of my legs, but it only took the Whole30 seven days! I could see and feel the inflammation leaving my body! My BP is now 120/80, and I have lowered my dose of water pills. My blood sugar is more regular. I feel great, I have energy to make through the day and then some, and most importantly… I’m pain free. Your program has changed my life – if not saved it.” -Heather B, Stevens Point WI

Lyme Disease

“Too sensitive to meds to bring down sugar levels in the high 300′s, and quite damaged from previous meds and 23 years of untreated Lyme disease, things just weren’t budging for me… until the Whole30. By day 10, blood sugars had dropped 150 points. Muscles that were long gone no matter what I did suddenly appeared overnight. Sleep was glorious for the first time in years and daytime energy was strong and available. I lose 10 pounds, dropped into normal sizes for shirts, and a lot of adipose fat disappeared. And the knees that I was told were too young to replace…well, they are working beautifully. Ringing in the ears stopped, mental clarity returning…and I am hoping to ski, kayak, and bike again in the near future.” Andrea B., Whole9 web site

“I was diagnosed with Lyme disease in October of 2009. My symptoms were stiff neck, headache… I hurt everywhere, I was tired all the time, I could not sleep through the night because I was in so much pain! My doctor told me it could 6 months or more to start feeling better…. I thought to myself, I do not have 6 months to wait? I searched the CrossFit site and found myself at the Whole30 and thought, let me try it – what do I have to lose? Well, I had a lot to lose – like everyone of my Lyme disease symptoms (and a few pounds as well)! I started feeling better after day 3, and I just kept feeling better – to the point of where I feel healthier now than I did before I had Lyme… as long as I stay the Whole9 course!” Anita H., Albany, NY

M

Migraines

“My very last migraine was right before I went on a Whole30 program in January 2010. This change is totally amazing for me, because I’ve been getting migraines 3-4 times a year (for a week or more at a time) for the past 8 years. I would be totally incapacitated – unable to move, do schoolwork, watch TV, read, eat, anything except just lie there in pain. I was worried that I wouldn’t even be employable, even though I was fine the rest of the time, or if I was hired I’d have to use all my vacation time up just being sick. Now, I feel fairly confident that I can look forward to a migraine-free future, and this confidence has allowed me the freedom to pursue a job in the U.S. military. Thanks, Whole30 for changing my life!” Laura R., location withheld

Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

“I began my Paleo way of life in December 2009. By January of 2010 I knew that I would never go back to my old eating habits. How could I make such a drastic decision? Simple – I have Multiple Sclerosis (MS), and Paleo made life better. Then in early 2010 I found the Whole9, and decided it was time for a Whole30. I thought Paleo changed my life – the Whole 30 gave me a new one. Not one single MS symptom appeared after one week in. That in itself is amazing, because when MS plays, it plays for keeps. This discovery was my rebirth.” Jennifer B., Canton, MI

N

Neck Pain

“I have had regular neck pain for 5-ish years – a stiff neck in the morning that almost always turn into bad headaches, requiring daily doses of ibuprofen. The pain and headaches were totally absent during my Whole30. Yay!” Emily M., Los Angeles, CA

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

“After just two Whole30’s, my results speak for themselves. My blood pressure is down from 140/102 to 116/77. I lost 20 pounds. I’ve cured my sleep apnea. And my liver enzyme tests went from AST 63 and ALT 164 to AST 22 and ALT 49. Which means I’ve cured my Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFL). I’m also sleeping through the night and am less depressed and anxious and more alert. Not bad for two months of eating amazing food.” Johnny M., San Francisco, CA

P

PCOS

See Jennifer’s story here: http://whole9life.com/2011/02/whole30-contest-winner/

“The Whole30 helped with all my PCOS symptoms. Because of my PCOS, I had such a hard time losing weight and keeping it off. Since January, I have lost over 45 lbs. By the end of March, my HDL was up from 61 to 86, and tryglicerides were down from 142 to 87. My insulin level went from 40 to 7! The Whole 30 also helped my acne. I only get one or two little breakouts a month, compared to four or five big cysts on my chin before the Whole30.” Bo K., San Francisco, CA

“I have PCOS, and the fertility issues associated with that condition. I have also been trying for years to lose weight, since my doctors have told me that’s the best way to improve my chances of getting pregnant. But as many women with PCOS are painfully aware, losing weight with all those hormonal imbalances feels impossible at times. Through exercise, I was able to lose ten pounds over the course of seven months, which felt like a miracle to me. But during the one month of my Whole30, I dropped another TEN pounds…and I feel better than ever! I feel like this is a huge step in the right direction.” Kit S., Japan

PDD

See Nicole’s story here: http://whole9life.com/2012/02/the-whole30-and-pdd/

Plantar Fasciitis

“I was suffering from plantar fasciitis for over a year. I had physical therapy to no avail. About week three of my Whole 30, it went away, and three months later — still eating a pretty clean diet — it still hasn’t returned. And while I know I need a knee replacement, my pain is almost entirely gone. It really has been miraculous!” –Jennie F, Nashville, TN

PMS

“The best thing for me is that my hormones are now in balance. For the last 19 years, my periods have been hit and miss, always 7 to 14 days late and my PMS so bad that I thought I was suffering from a mental illness. I couldn’t control my anger, and the exhaustion was unbearable. After my Whole30, the very first period was better – and as of my second cycle I have had NO PMS AT ALL, nothing. I feel just as good the day before my period as I do the week after my period, I do not get any noticeable symptoms. And now it comes every 28 days on the dot – this has never before been the case!! And since June 2011, I have lost an incredible 35kg (77 lbs.), dropped 4 dress sizes and been able to take up sport again and play with my kids at the beach and pool.” –Michelle H, Geelong, Victoria Australia (February 2012)

Psoriasis

“‎Three weeks into my first Whole30, I noticed the psoriasis on my head was gone! Plus my skin, which was generally dry and itchy all over most of the time, was no longer dry and itchy. AMAZING!” Michelle Holt, Geelong, Victoria, Australia

R

Reactive Hypoglycemia

“I’ve battled to control my reactive hypoglycemia since I was a young child. I attempted to manage it by eating small meals throughout the day, and followed the suggestion to try regularly timed, conventional “round meals” when the constant snacking did not help. As a result of my uncontrolled and overaggressive insulin response, there were many times when I would wake up with paralyzing night sweats and heart palpitations. Since doing my first Whole30, I’ve been able to manage my blood sugar more easily than I ever have before, and I no longer have to think about food with fear. Whole30 has helped me to eat in normal intervals without having to constantly snack, and has finally given me the freedom to eat when I’m hungry!” –Emily, Birmingham AL

“I have struggled with reactive hypoglycemia since the age of 23 (now 42). I can pass up sugar pretty easily and I gave up white flour and most grains about 10 years ago. However, I have never been able to shake the hypoglycemia. I used to dream of a day I wouldn’t have to plan my life around meals… and now it is reality! The Whole30 totally eradicated my reactive hypoglycemia. I noticed a significant change within the first week. Add one more ticker to the huge impact you are making in others lives!” -Marla M., Bartlesville, Oklahoma

“I was assigned this medical term several years ago because I used to have to eat every two hours, or I would get light-headed, dizzy, and sometimes pass out. What I was doing was eating the wrong things every two hours. Since eating the Whole9 way, I never feel like this, and can go longer without food, even.” Lori H., Dahlonega, GA

S

Seizures

See Jessica O’s story here: http://whole9life.com/2011/09/whole30-success-story-jessica-o/

Sleep Apnea

“I was depressed, overweight and my health was in a tailspin, spiraling out of control. On top of all that, I was not getting restful sleep. Not only was I waking to run to the bathroom every other hour, but I’d wake up 5 or 6 times a night from a quick sudden gasp for air (sleep apnea). Two weeks into my Whole30, I realized I was knocked out when my head hit the pillow and sleeping soundly for a solid 7-8 hours straight! Thanks, Whole30, for curing my apnea and giving me restful sleep, curing my depression, helping me lose 12 lbs and helping me get my life back on track!” -Johnny M., San Francisco CA

Smoking

Even after going Paleo about a year ago, I’ve never been able to (in my most ashamed whisper) kick my smoking habit. Today is the end of my Whole30 – and 30 days tobacco-free. This is the longest I’ve gone without a cigarette in 8 years. Victory.” -Rebecca E, Chicago IL

Sinus Infections

“Due to chronic sinus infections, doctors removed my tonsils and surgically opened my sinus canals three years ago. In those three years, I have had like 25% normal sense of smell (I could wash the toilets with 20% chlorine and not notice it!). All of a sudden I started smelling all kinds of things. During my Whole30, my sense of smell returned 100%.” Kristian Rosenvold, Oslo, Norway

T

Tendonitis

See Andrea’s story here: http://whole9life.com/2011/08/success-story-andrea/

“I got tendonitis in my right elbow 2-1/2 years ago and had it for a good 5 months. This September, it flared up in my left elbow both on the inside and the outside of the elbow. I had some of ART done, and it was better, but it was still perpetually sore and kind of numb. After my Whole30, it doesn’t hurt at all – neither the outside nor the inside! It feels 100%. So, I’m considering myself healed and thanking my Whole30 efforts. ” Roberta C., Seattle WA

Trichotillomania

See Jessica O’s story here: http://whole9life.com/2011/09/whole30-success-story-jessica-o/

Triglycerides

“Total triglycerides pre-Whole30: 112; post-Whole30: 51 (down 61 points).” Jill G., Fort Worth, TX

U

Ulceritive Colitis

“I decided I needed (the Whole30) after a Thanksgiving colitis flare-up. This necessitated a trip to the doctor, prescription meds, and all kinds of unpleasantness that generally takes months to recover from. This time on the Whole30, I was able to eliminate all symptoms and all medication in about 3 weeks. Better health and no drugs? Totally WORTH IT!” Jocelyn G, Royse City, TX

V

Vitiligo

“I was upset and self-conscious because the splotchy white “disease like” discolorations were on my hands, face, breasts, and other areas. I thought I would have to pile on makeup forever and spend eternity in a light booth as they attempt to ‘repair.’ Yet today, I am absolutely astonished – I have an autoimmune disease for which my doctor says there is no cure, yet I’ve had NO vitiligo outbreaks since the Whole30!!!! This program has paved the way for huge positive changes in my family’s life. Thank you!” –Jessica G., Vancouver WA

W

Weight loss

See Jenn L’s story here: http://whole9life.com/2012/01/whole30-success-jenn/

“As I have gotten older, I have been concerned about how difficult it has been to keep the weight off and eat healthy. Nothing was working, and starving myself was never an option. With the Whole30, I was able to identify and eliminate what foods were causing me so much trouble. I lost weight in areas of my body that were difficult for years to shed. I can wear the jeans that I hid away 3 years ago! Most importantly, there was never a moment that I had to be hungry. The Whole30 is a lifestyle for me now – I feel like I have finally found a program that works.” -Catherine H., Albuquerque, NM

“I have always been an active, healthy girl, but in my mid-30s (after a bout with severe exhaustion followed by two pregnancies) I found myself a good 100 pounds over the limit. Something had to be done, as ‘just eating well’ was not doing my body any good. I was inspired by a close friend who had had great success doing a Whole30, and started my journey in February 2011. The first month, I lost 10 pounds. And within the next two weeks, 5 more. Over the next year I did a total of five Whole30’s with a fairly clean diet in between. I have lost 70 pounds and over 40″ from my body. I am still a work in progress, but with Whole9 on my side, I am making it closer to my goal every day! Thank you for changing my life.” –Heidi M, Bozeman MT

In a 2011 survey of over 1,000 Whole30 participants, a full 95% lost weight and/or improved their body composition. 24% lost between 1-5 pounds; 32% lost 6-11 pounds; 19% lost 12-15 pounds and a shocking 9% lost more than 16 pounds in just 30 days! 10% reported no scale change, but an improvement in body composition (muscle gained and/or fat lost). And of the 5% who didn’t lose any weight, most weren’t trying – several were pregnant at the time of their Whole30 program, a few reported they were on a “mass gain” program and many stated they “didn’t have any weight to lose.”

Want to contribute your own story to our list? Submit your results as related to a specific condition, symptom, disease or affliction (including your first name, last initial and city/state) to whole30@whole9life.com, or leave your testimonial in comments.