4 Ways To Clean Up Your Nutrition

April Schum
Aug 21, 2017
3 min read

If you keep up to date on my blog, then you might know by now that I've completed the Whole30 program about 6 months ago. I learned a lot about myself through that experience, and even more about myself since after completing it. I've pin pointed the main things that my body does not do well with. My body reacts negatively when I consume processed sugar, gluten, dairy, soy and alcohol. When I say negatively, I mean that I experience 1 or all of the following 3 things--- neck aches, headaches, uncomfortable achy bloating in my stomach or inflammation in my feet, legs and hands. It's funny how in tune you can become with your body when you REALLY pay attention to it!

Since then I've introduced foods off the plan and have played around with a lifestyle that is more sustainable (for me) than the Whole30. I've re-introduced some legumes and gluten free grains. I'm all for someone trying out the Whole30 program if it's for the right reasons. The Whole30 Program is not designed for weight loss. It's a 30 day journey to see how your body responds when you cut out sugar, dairy, grains, soy, alcohol, and legumes. Typically when you cut out these inflammatory foods from your diet, as a result, you will lose weight. But the focus should be on HOW you FEEL and how your body is responding to different foods! If you experience discomfort after eating, then it can be helpful to follow the Whole30 plan to figure out which foods you have sensitivity or intolerance to. On the other hand, if shedding pounds is your only goal, you can still see results without going "all in”. Which is why I've created a non-restrictive plan for my clients to follow. Taking this less restrictive approach can make it easier to sustain a new healthy lifestyle that will give the health benefits while enjoying some indulgence along the way. To get you started off on the right track, I've listed my top 4 ways to clean up your nutrition below. 1. Keep track of your sugar and alcohol intake: For many, eliminating these indulgences for 30 days drastically reduces cravings, so you have a diminished desire to reach for the candy bowl. However, I know from experience that putting certain foods off limits can trigger a larger carving for something too which can end in binge eating or drinking. So here's a better approach-- if you feel you have a bit too much sugar or alcohol in your diet then maybe it's time to consider cutting back the amount you're eating. Become more aware of the amount you're eating by recording it for a week, this might be a big wake up call! Adjust according to your goals and watch the weight drop. 2. Stop eating processed foods: Stop eating foods that the nutrients have been stripped of and are filled with chemicals. Focus on eating REAL FOODS that are grown from the ground. And in the mean time watch your waistline get smaller and your energy increase! 3. Choose your carbs wisely: If you're consuming excessive amounts of poor quality carbs (i.e. crackers, chips, granola bars etc), that may be the cause of weight gain, bloating and fatigue. When healthy amounts of healthy grains are consumed it can actually aid in boosting energy and help you slim down. If you suspect that you have an intolerance or sensitivity to grains, then completing the Whole30 program would be beneficial to you. 4. Eat vegetables at EVERY MEAL, yes breakfast too!: Vegetable are the BEST source for vitamins and minerals--- you know, those things that keep us satisfied, full, happy and full of energy! You'll be less likely to over eat when you eat a veggie with each meal. For breakfast I like to add onions, peppers, mushrooms and spinach to my omelettes for an easy way to get veggies first thing! Client Success: Most weight loss success comes from having the education and accountability of doing what you're suppose to do! I've had many clients complete my online 30 day Nutrition Clean Up Groups so that they can learn exactly how to incorporate this into a lifestyle and to stay accountable to it for the first 30 days of getting started. The best thing about this plan is that you alter it to YOUR lifestyle. I make recommendations, but ultimately you adjust it based on how your body reacts to different foods. Clients are having fun with new recipes and foods as well as feeling better about having control over their nutrition, gaining energy and losing unwanted inches and weight! If you have goals to lose weight, get lean and tone up then this program is a great one to jump on! Contact me if you're interested in joining next months group!