What do you mean by “clean eating”?
Clean eating means different things to different people. To us, it means eating food in its natural state or as close to that as possible. That means food that is free of artificial flavors, colors, sweeteners, preservatives, hormones, and antibiotics and is unprocessed and, whenever possible, organic. On the Healthy Eating Program, clean eating also means eliminating those foods that can sabotage your weight-loss efforts and health—sugar, wheat, dairy, highly processed foods, artificial sweeteners, red meat, and alcohol. When it comes to clean eating, however, we are realistic. We try to eat clean as often as possible, but we also believe in indulging in moderation. Life without chocolate, cookies, wine, and ice cream wouldn’t be much fun. Eating clean most of the time so we don’t have to feel guilty when we do occasionally indulge.
How much weight can I expect to lose?
Participants have lost anywhere from 6 to 14 pounds during the 14-day program by eating a healthier, cleaner diet and eliminating the food categories that are known to sabotage weight loss.
Can I add artificial sweetener to my coffee or tea?
All artificial sweeteners (Splenda, Equal, Sweet’N Low, etc.) are eliminated on Day 5 of the program. You may wonder if stevia, an intensely sweet herb that has been used as a sweetener in its natural form for centuries, is allowed. It is often found in powder form under the brand name Truvia, and I treat this processed stevia like any other artificial sweetener and eliminate it during the program. If you frequently consume artificial sweeteners (including diet sodas), you might have a headache for a day or two when you eliminate them, but you’ll soon notice that you feel better and have more energy. If, after the 14-day program, you find that you still miss sweetened coffee or tea, try adding a small amount of a more natural sweetener like honey or agave. You might, however, be amazed at how much better your food tastes when it’s no longer masked by artificial flavors.
Can I add protein powder to my morning smoothies?
If protein powder isn’t included in specific breakfast drinks, then steer clear of it for the 14 days. Protein powders are processed and often contain additives and preservatives. You will be eating plenty of protein at your meals.
What immediate changes will I notice on the Healthy Eating Diet?
Once you eliminate sugar and artificial sweeteners from your diet, you may experience headaches, but that is common when starting any clean eating program. Stay strong and keep with the program! By Day 4, you’ll notice that your energy levels are higher, and you’ll experience fewer midafternoon crashes and cravings. The lethargy that often follows big meals will disappear, and soon you’ll feel great all the time.