Whole30 and Paleo are super similar. So, why would you choose one over the other? Let’s break it down.
Whole30 vs Paleo: Similarities
Both focus on eating clean, natural foods.
Not Allowed:
- processed foods
- grains
- dairy
- alcohol (oh dear God NOOOOO!)
- legumes
Differences
- Added sugar of any kind is a No-No on Whole30, and only refined sugar is forbidden on Paleo.
- Whole30 advises against using approved ingredients to recreate your favorite baked goods or snacks, however Paleo encourages eaters to adjust ingredients to make their favorite foods.
- Whole30 is designed as a strict, thirty day program. It is used as a cleanse to reset your body. It isn’t meant for longterm, whereas Paleo is a lifestyle.
Why I chose Whole30
After falling off the wagon, my cravings were out of control and I was constantly on the hunt for more sweets. I knew that I needed to cut out sugar. I just kept eating it! I felt guilty, but that didn’t stop me. Eating handfulls of chocolate chips from the baking cabinet was admittedly not my proudest moment. I was in no position to modify recipes and eat in moderation. I was waaaaaaaaaaay past eating in moderation and into the immediate need of an intervention, or a muzzle.
I like that it is Black & White. Eat this, Not that! You cheat, you start all over. It is a 30 day commitment. Do it or don’t. Easy-peasy.
One of the greatest benefits of Whole30 is what you learn about your relationship with food and how to break those unhealthy eating habits. Unlike me after my first try, you will hopefully continue to apply what you learn. This time I will follow the suggestions of achieving life after Whole30. It really took feeling like crap again to see how great I felt. I can be such a dum-dum sometimes.
Many people use the Whole30 as a kind off launch-pad to a longterm Paleo lifestyle or even as just a way to get some insight and control into their eating habits. At this point, I’m not sure which direction I’ll go after day thirty, but it will not be to the bakery. I know that much!
Which diet are you following? What’s your weakness? Cookies? Potato chips? Potato chip cookies? It’s a thing.
I’d love to hear.
