• Home
  • About
  • Contact
  • Categories
    • Travel
    • Decor
    • Divorce
    • Family
    • Fashion
    • Fitness
    • Food
    • Giveaways
    • Parenting
    • Pregnancy
    • Reviews
  • Shop My Looks
  • Want More?
  • Personal Training

Happily Hughes

Fitness•Food

Whole30 Pros and Cons

January 2, 2018

Whole30 Pros and Cons by popular Atlanta fitness blogger Happily Hughes

So I agreed to do Whole30.  I understand that many people have done it before and loved the results.  Plus, I asked ya’ll if you wanted me to try it, you said yes, so here I am.  If I don’t seem like the most excited participant it’s because it’s day one and I already miss bread.  Like A LOT!  I made the kids waffles and eggs for dinner and it literally took all of me to not lick their plates.  I decided to put together a Whole30Pros and Cons list, as well as some easy snacks and out-to-eat meals you can have!  Make sure to join our Facebook group here.

Whole30 Pros and Cons

Whole30 Pros

  1. I love how Whole30 focuses on eating whole foods instead of bars, shakes, or juices. 
  2. I also love how it pushes each participant to try foods they may not have tried before, or at least new combinations of foods. 
  3. NO CALORIE COUNTING!  Eat the food friend, eat it all!
  4. It’s a 30 day break from alcohol.  I definitely need this, as I would catch myself drinking a glass of wine at night just for fun.  That’s unnecessary and a habit I need to get out of. 
  5. It’s also a very good cleanse.  This is a great reset for the whole body, especially the intestines. 

Whole30 Cons

  1. Its extremely restrictive.  No legumes, no dairy, and no grains.  I understand the need to eat smaller portions of those, but I do believe that legumes, dairy and grains are an important building block to a healthy diet.  Especially if you’re active! 
  2. SO many rules.  The list of can and cannots on this diet are a bit ridiculous if you ask me.  They also recommend that you make ALL your own food.  Ummm not happening sister.  I used store bought almond milk, plantain chips, and RX bars for on the go! 
  3. The Whole30 nazis.  You know the ones I’m talking about- they watch what everyone’s eating and tell them they’re not being compliant.  Mind ya, ok? 

Overall I do think it’s a great cleanse for the body and I’m excited to see the results!  And to get past days 1-10.  Haha!  I can’t wait to feel that Tigers Blood stage.  As promised, here are some meals you can eat out: 

  1. Chipotle- Salad, carnitas, pico and green salsa and guac 
  2. Chick-fil-a- Spicy Southwest Salad with no corn, beans or cheese.  You can bring your own salad dressing. 
  3. Mexican restaurant- get fajitas with no tortillas and a side of guac 
  4. Steak house- Get you a steak girl!  Ask that it be grilled alone with no butter.  Get a side of broccoli steamed. 
  5. Any breakfast place- go to town!  Egg omelette made without butter with peppers, onions, and spinach and a side of chicken sausage if it’s organic.  Again, not cooked in oil or anything. 

And don’t miss Lindsey’s post from Life Lutzurious.  She did a whole post on tips and a shopping list! 

Heather also wrote an GREAT Trader Joe’s shopping list!  Check it out here.

Reader Interactions

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Comments

  1. Jessica Bradshaw says

    January 2, 2018 at 8:48 pm

    I haven’t tried whole 30 because it is so restrictive. I personally start craving the things I am told I can’t eat. Love that you listed the pros and cons. I know people who have had great success with it.

    Reply
  2. Katie says

    January 2, 2018 at 8:55 pm

    Love this article. This is my first Whole 30 and I’m most anxious about eating out, so the meal tips will come in handy! Can’t wait to go through the journey. Made it through day 1, 29 left!

    Reply
  3. April says

    January 2, 2018 at 9:25 pm

    This is such a a timely post! I’ve been thinking about doing the Whole30 and you outlined exactly why I should and shouldn’t do it.

    Reply
  4. Stephanie says

    January 2, 2018 at 9:27 pm

    I think the no dairy would be the worst for me because I love cheese. Oh, and I love bread. Not thinking this would be an easy one for me to try! I’m curious to see what you think as you continue with it, though! Sounds like a great cleanse after all the heavy holiday foods.

    Reply
  5. Marjie Mare says

    January 2, 2018 at 9:31 pm

    My co-workers and I started the whole 30 and I could not keep up, I felt it was too strict for me and it was not the right time as I was going away for a weekend with my daughter.

    Reply
  6. Angela Tolsma says

    January 2, 2018 at 9:44 pm

    I couldn’t do it for the dairy alone. It is far too restrictive for me and I love my food. I’d rather enjoy it and workout more. Also excellent headstand! And good for you for giving it a go and an honest review!

    Reply
    • Donna says

      January 3, 2018 at 6:38 am

      I thought the same. I used to have a cup of fat free milk with my breakfast every morning but I really didn’t miss it and haven’t gone back to that habit. I will have milk in oatmeal or an occasional cup but not like I used to. I was at a place where I was gaining weight while I was eating “healthy” and working out and the whole30 helped me break through the barrier and reset my body.

      Reply
  7. Jazmin Williams says

    January 2, 2018 at 9:49 pm

    I’ve never heard of Whole30 but I love this kind of post which lists the pros and cons from experience! Think I’ll have to look into it.

    Reply
  8. Destany says

    January 2, 2018 at 10:19 pm

    I have a few friends who are Whole30 people, and boy they let you know it. But, hey, I’m all about what works for ya! I lost 50 lbs a few years ago just by exercising daily and watching what I was eating. I need to get back to doing that!

    Reply
  9. Megan says

    January 2, 2018 at 10:41 pm

    I just started my 6th round! It’s definitely been a game-changer for me. I mostly notice decreased bloating, less mood swings and clearer skin by day 30. Looking forward to following your experience with it!

    Reply
  10. Rossy says

    January 2, 2018 at 10:45 pm

    Thanks for the honest review and the going out meal tips

    Reply
  11. Deb Savage says

    January 3, 2018 at 7:37 am

    Thank you so much for sharing about Whole30. I have seen so many people that are positive about it but never sharing what the cons are, so thank you!

    Reply
  12. Caitlin says

    January 3, 2018 at 9:23 am

    I really appreciate your honesty in providing both pros and cons! Even if it works, I know it would not work for me because I would not be able to maintain something restrictive in the long term. My approach is to eat *fewer* carbs, not *no* carbs. Same for alcohol. Balance is key.

    Reply
  13. nefeli says

    January 3, 2018 at 12:42 pm

    Nice whole30 but very restrictive. I can do it only for less days. But I think it worth it. You can clean your system!! So vital thanks

    Reply
  14. Ariel says

    January 3, 2018 at 4:24 pm

    I have actually never heard of this before. I definitely ifelt think that people can do anything they set their mind to. I however do not think I could do without dairy. I need the protein way too much. I love how you added how you could eat out while doing this challenge.

    Reply
  15. Lauren says

    January 4, 2018 at 9:26 am

    Oh my gosh! hahah yes! I remember making my kids mac and cheese when I started last Feb and it took EVERYTHING i had not to just help myself to their leftovers. This process changed my body though!! Keep on KEEPING ON BABE!

    Reply
  16. Lindsey Lutz says

    January 4, 2018 at 2:28 pm

    SUCH a great post. Thank you for keeping it REAL, girlfriend! xoxo

    Reply
  17. Renee Rose says

    January 6, 2018 at 8:51 am

    I love this honest review! I personally could never give up grains or dairy so I now know this isn’t the diet plan for me.

    Reply
  18. Noel says

    June 5, 2018 at 8:27 am

    How do I do this if I eat very little meat? I am not a vegetarian but many meats upset my stomach, especially pork and beef. I typically eat very small amounts of chicken or fish and lots of fresh fruits and veggies. I eat mostly whole foods now and find protein in a daily bowl of steel cut oat meal, beans, and nuts. I like dairy but do not binge on it. I go between cow and coconut milk and eat cheese sparingly. I eat almost no processed foods. Mainly tomato sauce and only because I have yet to find an efficient way to make this from scratch.

    Reply

Trackbacks

  1. WHOLE 30 TIPS AND RESOURCES | Fitness Fashion | Life Lutzurious says:
    January 2, 2019 at 2:15 pm

    […] Jess is a fitness GURU and healthy living blogger, so make sure you check out her post about the Pros and Cons of Whole 30. One of my favorite posts from Heather was busy mom Whole30 must haves to help you stay on track […]

    Reply
Previous Drugstore Skincare with CVS
Next 2017 Recap and 2018 New Year Resolutions

Like This? You'll Also Like These:

Favorite Fitness Finds 2019

Full Coverage Bathing Suits

Cookie Protein Pancakes

Best Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe

Jason’s Famous Buffalo Chicken Dip

Primary Sidebar

Hello!

looking for something?

Search This Blog

Shop Now!

The Latest On YouTube

Boston Family Travel Vlog

@HappilyHughes

Ok today was too fun in #stories! I hope y’all k Ok today was too fun in #stories! I hope y’all know how much I enjoy talking to each of you! You are what makes this job so fun! What do y’all want to do next Talk About it Tuesday? And how do you feel about lives for Favorite Friday? 
#womenempoweringwomen #ltkfamily #familyblogger #divorce
Happy Monday! Here’s a partner workout with a li Happy Monday! Here’s a partner workout with a little behind the scenes of our shoots. @chelseapatricia is a patient woman. What workouts do you want next??

Squat to high five/punch 4x1:00 
Push up to high five 4x:30
Crunch to high five 4x1:00 

#womenempoweringwomen #workoutathome #postpartumfitness
You know what gets me excited to work out? New ath You know what gets me excited to work out? New athletic wear! @jcpenney has so many cute choices for the whole family! I am loving the new Women’s Xersion line (more shown in stories), which has their new EVER AIR technology, plus Quick-Dri wicking and ventilated fabrics, all ensure you stay cool and dry while getting your body moving. #AllAtJCP #ad
I’ve talked about #performixsst before and it’ I’ve talked about #performixsst before and it’s honestly what’s getting me through the beginning of 2021/distance learning/work. With energy, increased metabolism and mental focus I’m able to get everything done + a work out! Head to my stories to hear more, and don’t miss out on your chance to use my code “JESSICA20” for 20% off online!  #performixpartner #performix
As requested, here are some at home booty workouts As requested, here are some at home booty workouts you can do. If you don’t have a weighted ball you can use a dumbbell, cat, dog, small child etc... 😂 

Side Squat Walks- burn it out x4 (at least :30 seconds)
Deadlift 3x12 
Squat to Throw 4x10

#womenempoweringwomen #squats #athomeworkouts #postpartum
If you’re looking to jumpstart your New Years re If you’re looking to jumpstart your New Years resolutions/health journey I highly recommend Performix SST #performixpartner. It is an all day timed release energy supplement that not only gives you that extra boost, but it also helps burn fat and increases mental focus. Who doesn’t need that?! Use my code JESSICA20 for 20% off online on performix.com! #performix #performixss
Follow Along @HappilyHughes
Ok today was too fun in #stories! I hope y’all k Ok today was too fun in #stories! I hope y’all know how much I enjoy talking to each of you! You are what makes this job so fun! What do y’all want to do next Talk About it Tuesday? And how do you feel about lives for Favorite Friday? 
#womenempoweringwomen #ltkfamily #familyblogger #divorce
Happy Monday! Here’s a partner workout with a li Happy Monday! Here’s a partner workout with a little behind the scenes of our shoots. @chelseapatricia is a patient woman. What workouts do you want next??

Squat to high five/punch 4x1:00 
Push up to high five 4x:30
Crunch to high five 4x1:00 

#womenempoweringwomen #workoutathome #postpartumfitness
You know what gets me excited to work out? New ath You know what gets me excited to work out? New athletic wear! @jcpenney has so many cute choices for the whole family! I am loving the new Women’s Xersion line (more shown in stories), which has their new EVER AIR technology, plus Quick-Dri wicking and ventilated fabrics, all ensure you stay cool and dry while getting your body moving. #AllAtJCP #ad
I’ve talked about #performixsst before and it’ I’ve talked about #performixsst before and it’s honestly what’s getting me through the beginning of 2021/distance learning/work. With energy, increased metabolism and mental focus I’m able to get everything done + a work out! Head to my stories to hear more, and don’t miss out on your chance to use my code “JESSICA20” for 20% off online!  #performixpartner #performix
As requested, here are some at home booty workouts As requested, here are some at home booty workouts you can do. If you don’t have a weighted ball you can use a dumbbell, cat, dog, small child etc... 😂 

Side Squat Walks- burn it out x4 (at least :30 seconds)
Deadlift 3x12 
Squat to Throw 4x10

#womenempoweringwomen #squats #athomeworkouts #postpartum
If you’re looking to jumpstart your New Years re If you’re looking to jumpstart your New Years resolutions/health journey I highly recommend Performix SST #performixpartner. It is an all day timed release energy supplement that not only gives you that extra boost, but it also helps burn fat and increases mental focus. Who doesn’t need that?! Use my code JESSICA20 for 20% off online on performix.com! #performix #performixss
New ab workout with an advanced move at the end! M New ab workout with an advanced move at the end! Make sure to focus on form. 

Talking through resolutions in stories! What is your resolution or goal for this year? 

Full Sit Ups 3x20 
Pikes 3x12 
Sit Up Twist 3x20 each side 
Knee to Shoulder Crunch 2x10 each side 

#womenempoweringwomen #fwtfl #postpartumfitness #athomeworkouts

 

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL!

LOOKING FOR SOMETHING?




LATEST ON YOUTUBE

Boston Family Travel Vlog

Copyright © Happily Hughes | Design by MLL Design + Branding Studio.

We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website.

You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings.

Happily Hughes
Powered by  GDPR Cookie Compliance
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookies

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.