By now you’ve probably heard of the Whole30^® diet, and maybe you’ve even tried it on your own as part of a New Year’s resolution.

For those who don’t know, here’s a crash course: Whole30^® is different from other restrictive diets in that it’s more of an investigation of how what you eat impacts your physical and mental health.

You start by removing from your system: soy, dairy, grains, alcohol, legumes, and added sugars for 30 days straight. Then you begin slowly adding them back in, one food group at a time, with the ultimate goal of having a better understanding of how these foods and beverages impact your physical and mental wellbeing.

According to Whole30^®, “Millions of people have transformed their health, habits, and relationship with food through the Whole30 program; eliminating cravings, improving energy and sleep, relieving symptoms, and discovering lasting food freedom.”

 Whole30 Benefits for Your Family

Because of the long list of foods to cut out, it would be tough to do Whole30^® if everyone in the house isn’t on board. So make it a family activity!

Depending on your kids’ ages and level of independence in the kitchen, you may not need to tell them about Whole30^®. If you simply start introducing healthier habits and foods into your family meal time, they’ll reap the benefits without any feelings of missing out. And when instilled early on, this type of mindful eating can be helpful throughout your children’s lives.

Here are just a few of the ways, taken from the official website, that Whole30^® can benefit every area of your family’s life.

Outer Physical Benefits

• Glowing skin with fewer blemishes
• Whiter teeth and fresher breath
• Stronger nails and hair
• Flatter stomach with less bloating
• More toned appearance

Internal Physical Benefits

• Improved blood sugar regulation
• Reduced or eliminated medications
• Less acid reflux/ heartburn
• More regularity/ less constipation and/or gas
• Fewer asthma attacks/ seasonal allergies

Emotional and Psychological Benefits

• Fewer mood swings
• Improved behavior in kids/ less tantrums
• Fewer sugar and carb cravings
• Less anxious/ stressed
• Improved self-esteem/ confidence

Food and Behavior Benefits

• Healthier relationship with food
• Healthy strategies to deal with cravings
• Can distinguish between cravings and hunger
• Learn new cooking skills
• No more food guilt or shame

Whole30 Recipes for the Family

If your family could use any or all of the above benefits, take a look at a few recipes that will keep you compliant during the 30 days and may even become long-term favorites.

Grain-Free Chicken Nuggets from The Natural Nurturer

 Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup from Whole Kitchen Sink

Crockpot Creamy Tomato Soup from Real Food Whole Life

 Buffalo Chicken Chowder from Wholesomelicious

 One-Pan Mexican Chicken from Hello Glow