Real food basically means anything not highly processed (like artificial additives) and containing only five or fewer whole ingredients. It means mostly avoiding ingredients you would not cook with at home.
Here are the seven rules we followed during our original 100 Days of Real Food pledge:
- No refined grains (such as white flour or white rice); only 100 percent whole grain. Items containing wheat must say WHOLE wheat...not just "wheat" by itself.
- No refined or artificial sweeteners (such as sugar, any form of corn syrup, cane juice, or the artificial stuff like Splenda); only honey and pure maple syrup in moderation.
- Nothing out of a package that contains more than five ingredients.
- No factory-farmed meat; only locally raised meat products.
- No deep-fried foods.
- No fast food.
- Beverages to include only water, milk, occasional all-natural juices, naturally sweetened coffee and tea, and (to help the adults keep their sanity) wine and beer in moderation!
I promise, there's still food left after eliminating everything mentioned in our rules!
What you CAN eat:
- Whole foods that are more a product of nature than a product of industry
- Lots of fruits and vegetables (we recommend that you shop for these at your local farmers' market)
- Dairy products like milk, unsweetened yogurt, eggs, and cheese
- 100% whole-wheat and whole-grains (find a local bakery for approved sandwich bread and check the Understanding Grains post for more info)
- Seafood (wild-caught is the optimal choice over farm-raised)
- Only locally raised meats such as pork, beef, and chicken (preferably in moderation)
- Snacks like dried fruit, seeds, nuts and popcorn
- Also, check out the Recipes & Resources page for a more detailed list of meal options including links to recipes
Cara says
Great list, thanks! Eggs are not dairy products, though ...
Sonya says
http://www.Realmilk.com
Stephanie says
Is there a healthy substitute for butter, to be used on bread?
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Stephanie. There aren't any butter replacement spreads we recommend. How about olive oil? There are lots of delicious ways to dress it up such as garlic, rosemary, salt, oregano, pepper,etc... ~Amy
Debbie says
Hi! My daughter and I have have many food allergies and it is hard for us to find food to eat! I am hoping this will help. She is allergic to corn, soy, dairy, and chicken and I am allergic to wheat, rice, oats, corn, soy, dairy, lettuce, chocolate and beef! We don't eat a ton of processed foods anyway just because of all the different names given to some of our allergens, it just isn't worth it! Thanks for your help with this outline!
Tricia says
I am interested in doing the 10 day challenge but I am curious if I can do this while being a vegan? I already don't eat meat or dairy. I'm trying to cut down on having too many carbs because I am trying to be heart healthy and lose weight.
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Tricia. We have people of all food philosophies taking part in the challenge. You can tailor it to your own needs as long as you stay within the rules. Meat and dairy are not requirements. It is for everyone. I, for instance, eat vegan and gluten free about 90% of the time. :) ~Amy
Tara says
What about 3 bakers 7 ancient grains gluten free bread? Is this consider processed?
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Tara. I don't know this bread. A quick glance at the ingredients reveals a handful of additives but compared to many store bought gluten free breads, it holds it's own. It is 100% whole grain which is important. ~Amy
Terbear says
Sorry if this topic has already been covered... but what about butter ? Is that not allowed ?
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Terbear. Butter is allowed. We suggest ghee:https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2011/05/14/mini-pledge-week-10-no-refined-oils/. ~Amy
Anna N says
I was wondering about dried fruits -- so many of them list ingredients such as "sulfites" (I gather this is part of the preserving process). Are dried fruits generally safe? Thanks in advance for all of your thoughts.
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Anna. Look for organic dried fruits without added ingredients. ~Amy
Jen says
What about evaporated cane juice? It is used in Chobani yogurt and they say it is all natural...
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Jen. It is "natural" but it is a refined sweetener: https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2011/05/06/mini-pledge-week-9-no-refined-sweeteners/. Here is one of the ways we add sweetness and flavor our yogurt: https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2011/05/03/recipe-berry-sauce/. ~Amy
Che Joubert says
I'm concerned about the number of people who have identified their problem with digestion, or other symptoms, as an 'alergy' or sensitivity to dairy products. Almond milk has nothing at all in common with real milk, lacking virtually ever nutrient and element in milk, so that other than appearance, there should be no reason to use anything like that as a substitute. It would be better to simply turn to eggs or other excellent proteins as a substitute. However, you will still be missing the combo of nutrients in milk that makes it so valuable. Milk allergies are quite rare, and if you really think you have that problem, I'd recommend using 23andMe, or other gene research company to do a work up on you and tell you whether you are likely to have lactose intolerance or not. There are specific genes involved with lactose intolerance that will make clear to you whether that is your problem. (I am not affiliated in any way, shape or form with 23andMe, but I've used it, and know they're running a $99 sale now.) I must warn you, that not one person I know who thought they were lactose intolerant actually was. The inability to digest healthy organic foods, especially milk and meat, is usually caused by some form of nutritional deficiency The human stomach is capable of learning to digest foods eaten frequently, and produce the proper enzymes for that food. If you cannot do that, and test positive for the ability to digest lactose, you probably need to take supplements such as food yeast, minerals, and extra vitamins such as A, E, and C for awhile, and along with that, take actual digestive enzymes temporarily with high protein/nutritive foods you have trouble digesting.
Emil says
Hi,
What about other fermented alcohol like mead and cider? I'd assume these are acceptable but wanted to clarify.
Thanks!
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Emil. As long as their are no added ingredients (sugar), they should be fine. ~Amy
Tracy says
What is a good alternative to white rice? We eat alot of this in our family.
Tina says
Hi, Tracy! We eat a lot of white rice, too, because my husband lived in Japan and ate it three meals a day for almost two years. He loves it and pretty much nothing else; however, I did a whole grain rice he likes. It is a short grain sticky rice called "Sweet Brown Rice" and it is sold by Lundberg Family Farms. They sell it in 25lb bags, and it is organic. I found this rice by going to a local health food store with a large bulk section and buying a cup or two of different kinds of rice and trying them all. After I found the sweet brown rice, though, I haven't bought any other whole grain rice. It is SOOOO delicious! Good luck!
Terrence Vaughan says
My wife(partner) has introduced me to a healthier way of eating, so glad I found your site. The cost of our groceries has gone up, but we are hoping that by keeping our medical bills down it will be well worth it. While doing some grocery shopping we found this Gluten free hard cider called Wood Chuck. Here is their website - http://www.woodchuck.com/cider/gluten-free.html
Kathy says
I have been enjoying reading all of the information on your website. I also have been doing research on GMO's and which products to avoid. I have shared this information with my husband and I am committed to eliminating processed foods from our diet, and he is slowly getting on board as he comes to understand what it is all about. I have always been a label reader but it has always been more about fat, sodium, calories vs. additives and chemicals, so looking for "real food" products can definitely be more challenging!I am wondering if items like full fat mayonnaise, full fat cheeses and other condiments (ketchup,mustard) are part of the real food diet as they seem to have far less ingredients in general and ones that I recognize! Would it be better to make your own mayonnaise? It doesn't keep long which is the challenge. There are only the 2 of us so I don't want things to go to waste. I have started making my own bread in the bread machine. Are there flours that are better choices? We live in Ontario,Canada so the stores and some brands that you mention are not available here.
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Kathy. Welcome and congratulations on making such important changes in the way you eat! Here is a post which addresses the mayo issue: https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2012/04/17/real-food-condiments-do-they-exist/. Also, you should be able to find a brand of white whole wheat flour that will work for you at any health food store. Hope that helps. ~Amy
Danica @ It's Progression says
Love this post so so much. Thank you!
Bridgette Scott says
I really love your website!! I am curious about finding farmers markets in Japan (where I currently reside). I want to get rid of all the processed foods in my home and I know it will take time. I really want to make a lifestyle change and learn to cook more unprocessed foods, especially for my son who has ADHD. Thanks again for all you do!!!
Rhonda Walker says
Bridgette,
It depends on where you live in Japan, but most of the local vendors will sell local organic produce. You can also get fish and other cuts of meat from the different shops. I have lived in both Yokosuka and Sasebo so once you get out and around you will find the local market place (not grocery store). Also be aware that most of the baked goods are based on white rice and white flour so it will be very hard to find anything that is whole grain. Japanese culture has a wide range of beautiful foods, make sure you try a little bit of everything it has to offer. Good Luck!!
Jacob V. says
I pretty much eat like this except i drink quite a bit of wine and some beer... The thing that bugs me is that it gets harder and harder to find pure ingredients.
One simple example, try finding a yogurt without additives. Yogurt should only have milk and bacteria as ingredients, not pectin, not concentrated milk solids and what not... Cheese is another one, talking about real cheese here, not the processed stuff, butt even "real" cheese in many cases now has eggs listed as ingredients now (why?).
A more important issue I find is the lack of labeling on meat and produce. Where is it from? You can find out the general area but no info what so ever on how it was farmed (organic, all natural are all terms who's meaning have gotten quite laughable...), more importantly there is never any mention if it has been "engineered" or not. I happily for go anything processed or pre-cooked in the supermarket but how can I even tell when it comes to veg or meat or fish?
I do not want to eat Tilapia that was raised on corn, I don't want to eat corn that was engineered to grow twice as fast, I don't want eggs from chickens that sit in a cage. I don't want meat from chickens that can't flap their wings etc.
I'd like to see a lot of changes in the food chain and I realize most of these will never happen because they're "un-economical"...
But please, PLEASE label these products so consumers can make their own choices, PLEASE!
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Jacob. Shopping at local farmer's markets, when possible, can eliminate some of the guesswork as to where your food is coming from at least during the growing season. And, more often than not, you can find local or regional farms that sell their meat products. When you buy from those farmers, you are often able to ask questions directly to them and sometimes even visit the farms. Check out these posts and resources: https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2011/03/25/mini-pledge-week-3-meat/, http://www.eatwild.com/, http://gmoawareness.org/ and http://www.ewg.org/foodnews/. Hope this helps. ~Amy
Lindsay says
What are your thoughts on citric acid in canned goods or other things?
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Lindsay. I have not done much research on citric acid other than to know it is used mainly as a preservative and that it can be a factor in the leaching of BPA from can liners. I also found this pertaining to food allergies: http://foodallergies.about.com/od/Other-Food-Allergies/a/Citric-Acid-Allergy.htm. I'm not sure what you were looking for but hope this helps. ~Amy
Lindsay says
Thank you! Is citric acid something that you stay away from in the real food diet?
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi again Lindsay. This is taken directly off the FAQ page: Question: “I could really use a list of ‘bad’ ingredients in food and why we should avoid them.â€
The list of additives readers inquired about went on and on including xantham gum, natural flavoring, carrageenan, sulfites, nitrates, and citric acid. People also asked about GMOs (genetically modified foods) and “enriched†products.
-
Answer: I am going to make this one easy for you (as opposed to giving you some long, complicated list of additives that you need to memorize or keep in your wallet!). If it’s not an ingredient you keep in your pantry or would cook with at home then it’s best to avoid it. As far as GMOs go they are currently not required to be labeled in our country so the only way to avoid them at this time is to buy organic. When you see “enriched†on the label it means that product has been refined so they have to “enrich†the flour by adding back in the important nutrients they think are now missing. Since food scientists cannot recreate nature I personally avoid refined, enriched products and go for the “real†original thing instead (i.e. whole-grain).
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Lindsay. We try to avoid additives/preservatives whenever possible. As preservatives go, citric acid (not the naturally occurring type) seems rather benign. However, it is highly processed and likely derived from GMO corn. I find this chart helpful when considering the impact of additives/preservatives: http://www.traditionaloven.com/articles/122/dangerous-food-additives-to-avoid. Hope that helps. ~Amy
WhatAboutOrganicAndNonGMOs says
I like what you are doing and enjoy this site :) My biggest concerns are that your site and suggestions don't give info to people regarding those nasty GMO's. Like Corn and Soy. Almost 90-95% of the US corn and soy crops are genetically modified... can you imagine what that is doing to your body? We become the experiment when we eat food items that are Genetically Modified: http://www.nongmoproject.org/learn-more/what-is-gmo/ .
I personally do Organic only, and Farmer's Markets where you can talk directly to the farmers and inquire about whether or not they use pesticides, chemicals, growth hormones (if it's injected into the cow, it is most Definitely in the milk you drink... think about it), etc. I think everyone should at least try your awesome 100 day pledge, but with more of an organic and paleo twist. And by organic, I mean to at least abide by EWG's Dirty Dozen and Clean 15 list: http://www.ewg.org/foodnews/summary/
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2013/02/27/us-food-products.aspx?e_cid=20130303_SNL_MS_1&utm_source=snl&utm_medium=email&utm_content=ms1&utm_campaign=20130303
People, you literally Are What You Eat. Great documentaries to watch for the sake of your health, your kids' health, and the health of the population, are:
Hungry For Change
Food Matters
Forks Over Knives
Fat, Sick, and Nearly Dead
Ingredients
Vegucated
Fresh
Food Inc
Super Size Me
Food Beware
Just don't eat processed foods, PERIOD... unless you don't mind having a battle with cancer later in life, a heart attack, and or health problems. Our bodies were created to feed off the land from fruit, vegetables, and plants that grow out of the ground and feed off of what the ocean naturally provides the earth, with very minimal meat -- and if you Have to have some meat, make it a special occasion with organic grass fed beef, or organic chicken, or organic pork... not feed off the industrial processed foods. Chemicals = Toxins. If you want to be healthy bodied, healthy minded, clearer skinned, very minimal to no health problems of any kind, more fit & lean, and much happier --- then do this 100 day pledge the Organic Way, the Non-GMO way, with a Paleo twist.
I lost the 40 extra pounds by going organic, non gmo, and paleo while working out minimally :) It took only 5 months. I haven't had one breakout; my hair is silkier and healthier (I use organic coconut extra virgin oil as a mask on my hair 2 x per week); my skin is radiant with minimal cellulite; I feel energized all day long; I fit into the jeans from when I was 18 (I'm 30 now); tossed away my inhaler for my now non-existent mild asthma; my mind is sharper and I can retain much more information than ever before; and the list goes on and on! And the best part about all of these things (I know, I know... How could I top all of that, eh?), I can eat as much fruit, vegetables, and nuts as I want throughout the whole day. I noticed that the more of those healthy snacks I ate throughout the day, the better I'd feel, and the more fat I would lose on a weekly basis. How amazing do you believe you'll feel, think and look after Lisa's 100 day pledge with Organic, Non-GMO, and paleo eating habits? Try it. It will only make life That much more grand than you can imagine!
Greg says
I am just wondering if you have read "Wheat Belly" and what you thought of it?
Tiffany Booth says
Greg I have read Wheat Belly and loved that book. I have Crohns Disease and was absolutely shocked had the detrimental effects our genetically modified wheat has on our bodies!! Not good. I just finished reading "Good Calories, Bad Calories" and this is a must read too when it comes to understanding complex carbs, starches and the impacts these have on your health (weight, etc). It's research driven and can get overly scientific for some people. If you can get in on CD and listen to it it will be a more enjoyable experience!!
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Greg. We are certainly aware of the book. Look for an upcoming post on wheat by Lisa and Jason. ~Amy
Carly says
So, I'm addicted to your blogging journey! Having started a similar one myself a little over a year ago (I set out to treat my chronic fatigue, as well as other hefty health issues nutritionally) I can definitely relate. It quickly becomes a passion and a purpose, and has so far brought me levels of recovery far above what I dared hope for! I'll be tuning in for more fab articles! Thank you so much for sharing!
http://leapacrossthepond.blogspot.com/2013/03/the-us-health-food-conundrum-where-to.html
Courtney says
I am curious as to what you do during months in which farmers markets are not available.
Jaimie Devine says
I get organic fruits and vegetables delivered from Fullcircle.com It is in the Pacific Northwest. Each week a new delivery of in season fruits and veggies arrive. I can take the standard order or change the contents of the order! I'm sure more and more of these food companies/farms/co-ops will become available all over.
Brandi says
Hi I signed up for the 10 day challenge a few weeks ago. I'm unfortunately finding this very difficult. The difficulty comes from my household being gluten free and cow dairy free. Any suggestions on finding non-processed foods that meet these requirements; and staying in a reasonable budget?
Thank you!
Tiffany Booth says
Brandi~
Being gluten and dairy free are challenging but I'd think this transition somewhat easier having that be the case. Fruits, vegetables, meat are gluten and dairy free. These are the whole foods they are referring to. You can look up the Paleo Diet to find a ton of recipes that would meet the whole food/real food challenge. As fair as grains go, have you looked into quinoa. I believe this is gluten free. You may want to also check into Eziekel or sprouted breads. Some of the grains listed in the Maker's Diet by Jordan Ruben I'd think would meet the gluten free category and also be considered a whole food. some things to check into that may be helpful when it comes to recipes and things of that nature!!!
Deanna says
We are having the exact same problem (i have four children in all, ages 8 and down to 3 months), two children who are dairy intolerant and the other can't do gluten, even my baby is reacting to dairy in my breastmilk. I don't want to use all the imitation milks, but don't know what to do, fortefied oj gives everyone an upset stomach and all the gluten free breads call for xanthium gum etc. I actually am a health coach and am finding this really, really difficult though I believe in it 100%.
Jodean says
Deanna, I recently started making homemade almond milk after coming to suspect that my youngest son was having dairy issues. Very simple, and just two ingredients: raw almonds and filtered water. You can add a couple of dates to sweeten it while you are blending and a touch of vanilla extract if you want. Very delicious! We have also been expiramenting with small amounts of organic, non-homogonized, low-temp pasturized milk, and he does not seem to be having the problems he was. Good luck.
sharon says
I have been reading about raw milk not causing the stomach upset that homogenized milk does. Research that and see if you can find a local dairy cow owner to buy your milk from.
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Brandi. As usual, really good advice from readers! In addition, here are a couple posts that deal directly with those issues: https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2012/06/28/food-allergies/ and https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2012/08/31/food-allergies-dairy/. ~Amy
Melody Elliott Koontz says
Be careful of the milk you drink! All organic, hormone free. Same with eggs. I can't eat wheat..so no problem there. I am on board. Should be fairly easy.
Holley says
I'm not sure if this was mentioned in an earlier comment (too many pages to pour through), but I'd like to point out that farmer's markets are not always beneficial. In my experience, many times sellers will actually have produce that is out of season and therefore either a) not fresh or b) not locally grown. Additionally, small-time farmers still need to make money and often the most cost-effective production involves pesticide use or feeding animals unhealthy foods (i.e. corn and grains for fattening cows quickly), leading to inorganic food. Just please be mindful of these points and ask questions before purchasing your food - not everything is as it seems.
Amy says
I did a search and did not see agave nectar listed anywhere as a natural sweetner, what are your thoughts on this? I have used this when I go to sweeten tea or coffee based on clean eating principals.
Laura Thompson says
Hi Amy, somewhere on this blog, I'm not sure where though, Lisa says to try and stay away from agave as it is quite processed to get to its final liquid stage! You may be able to search ok the website to find more info! Good luck!
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Amy. This is the post we usually refer people to who are inquiring about agave: http://www.foodrenegade.com/agave-nectar-good-or-bad/. Hope it answers your questions. ~Amy
Traci says
Agave is highly processed and is a non-food anti-nutrient. It should never be consumed. It is a horrible substitute.
Emdee says
I'm on my 2nd week of this challenge. So far so good. :). Thanks for this blog. It really inspires our family.
I would add to the list something about the use of oils and fats for cooking. One of my biggest challenges was replacing the cooking oils I normally use with natural fats. No more canola, grapeseed or other hydrogenated oils. We cook these days with extra virgin olive oil (mild heat only), virgin coconut oil and ghee. :)
Colleen says
Hi: i bake my own bread and it requires a sweetener. I use splenda usually. I am a type one insulin dependent diabetic and the options you listed for the sugar replacements are not options I can use even in small amounts. What replacement options do you have. Yeast will not rise without some form of sweetner. I probably don't use more then a tbsp. spoon or so a day but it adds up with other foods that have naturall sweeteners in them such as your fruit.
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Colleen. When you have a specific medical condition, you definitely need to stick with the advice of your doctor and what you have found that works for you. Different rules, your own, apply here. Hope that helps. ~Amy
Sarah says
What about preservatives etc? Most cheeses, wraps etc have preservatives, but I don't see it addressed above. It's ok as long as there are 5 or fewer ingredients? I can find organic, whole grain wraps but none without preservatives... :(
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Sarah. We avoid additives and preservatives as much as possible. If you stick to the 5 ingredient rule, you should be doing pretty well. Have you tried this recipe for whole wheat tortillas: https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2010/05/26/recipe-whole-wheat-tortillas/? You can make and freeze them. Hope this helped. ~Amy
Kate says
Do you provide a list of ingredients that are artificial vs. natural. For example, xantham gum, is that considered "real" or not?
Sorry, maybe I am too picky, but if I decide to do something I want to do it right!
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Kate. We don't have that list but I can tell you we avoid additives whenever possible and have found that "natural ingredients" are often not natural at all. Michael Pollan says: “Avoid food products containing ingredients that no ordinary human would keep in the pantry.†And, here is more than you ever wanted to know about xanthum gum: http://blog.fooducate.com/2010/09/23/10-facts-about-xantham-gum-a-very-popular-food-additive/. Hope this helps. ~Amy
Katrina says
I was wondering if you have a book or a cookbook out (OR BOTH) that I can buy? Also I came across a page on here that had list of foods with the brand names that you like to buy at the stores but I can't seem to find it again. It had canned goods, cheeses, yogurts, etc....I remember seeing the name muir glen for canned tomatoes on that list if that helps. Lastly is naturally derived citric acid good or bad? Please Help!! thanks....
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Katrina. Good news: https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2012/10/26/behind-the-scenes-my-upcoming-cookbook/! And, you can find the Supermarket Cheat Sheet and Meal Plans 1-4 by liking us on Facebook: https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/our-free-meal-plans/. ~Amy
Molly says
My dad sometimes buys Mexican sweet bread, like conchas, from a local bakery. I sometimes find myself really wanting to eat one but I dont think its whole wheat. What should I do?
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Molly. Oh, temptation...Are you doing the pledge? If so, that sweet bread would likely fall outside of the real food rules. ~Amy
Lorie says
I would like find a sandwich meat for my 12 & 16 year olds. Any suggestions on "lunchmeat?"
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Lorie. Well, this might not be what you were hoping for. Lunch meat is processed and here is our take: https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2011/07/27/sandwich-inspiration-and-my-view-on-lunch-meat/. And, if you are interested, take a look at our mini pledge on meat: https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2011/03/25/mini-pledge-week-3-meat/. All that said, if you are still holding out for cold cuts be sure to look for a brand that is organic as well nitrate free. I know the brand Applegate Farms has that are both. Hope that helps. ~Amy
Bel says
We have cut out processed foods completely, eat organic/local meats, fruits & vegetables, organic dairy & eat 100% whole wheats & grains. My downfall is flavored creamer for my cup of coffee. I buy Trader Joe's dairy free French vanilla flavored creamer, but it is filled with about 15 ingredients. We just moved from CA & I use to buy their French vanilla 1/2 & 1/2 which was much better, but they don't sell it here in NC. Any recipes for flavored creamers?
Keeley says
I have seen some recipes on deliciouslyorganic.net
Debbie says
I used some of those recipes for creamer lfor my coffee and they are great! So easy to make.
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Bel. How about real cream with a bit of real vanilla? That thought makes me want some coffee right now. ~Amy
Christine says
Im starting a 60 day challenge of no sugar and nothing refined. (ALL CLEAN for 60 days.) The one thing Im keeping is yogurt thats already sweetened. Any way, you said no artificial sweeteners like splenda... what about stevia? Can I use that while Im not using sugar for the next 60 days?
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Christine. Good luck on your challenge! The stevia available in most stores is a highly processed white powder and does not fall within our Real Food guidelines. Have you considered using honey or maple syrup? ~Amy
lauren says
what about raw sugar??
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Lauren. Though slightly less so, raw sugar is still refined. This might help explain: https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2011/05/06/mini-pledge-week-9-no-refined-sweeteners/. ~Amy
Danielle says
I have been processed, GMO, gluten, wheat, corn ,soy, milk and dairy free this year! In addition, I only buy organic meats, and only once monthly for grass fed beef, but I have wild game more often and fish. I too, had: arthritic joints, back aches, digestive, hormone issues, and many other fibromyalgia like issues. I also thought I was eating healthy for my body and followed what the Government nutritional guidelines say.
Since my COMPLETE overhaul...I now am 100% pain fre have not a single migraine OR headache, hormones are balanced, mentally focused, and I am not on a diet but lost a whopping 24 pounds since January! This change...not diet...has CHANGED my life forever. There is no better feeling than to FEEL healthy inside. Words simply cannot express my feelings.
I was recommended this 'cleanse' by my D.O. who focuses on natural health...for m issues and deficiencies, and I cannot thank my D.O., Dr. Ann Auburn...enough! I also decided to continue eating this way...for LIFE!!!
100Days...you should be so proud of yourselves, and what you are doing for others! I am proud of YOU all! Thank you. :)
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
We are proud of you, Danielle! What a great story. Thank you for sharing. ~Amy
Danielle says
Amy...CRUSH and place in tea...or keep whole leaves to sweeten the pitcher, and leave them in there until gone!
I also use the REAL plant leaves. The only think I find...well, is green pieces in my teeth at times. LOL!
It is a wonderful sweetener for me, anyways.
You can also place leaves in ice cube containers and pour water on top like regular ice, and it will last a LONG time! Place one cube in HOT tea...and it is ready in seconds for sipping. :)
Otherwise the finely crushed particles make for an awesome add on in water, or fresh squeezed lemons and stevia leaves makes an awesome lemonade. I use a shaker and shake and pour over ice! :)
Jodi Dillree says
I changed my life 30 days ago and stopped eating processed foods. I didn't have a bad diet before but now I watch everything I eat. I really think the junk they put in out foods are a major cause of a lot of health problems we have today. I did this to be healthier. I also am a migraine sufferer, at least 10 migraines a month. This month I think I had TWO!!!!!I really think it is because of my new diet. I am thrilled. I an staying on my non-processed way of living for ever. It is not hard...if it didn't grow that way don't eat it.
Claire says
I absolutely love your website, Facebook info, and emails. I am an avid runner and typically training for some race coming up. During marathon training it is important to take in electrolytes and instant sources of fuel.. Do you have any recommendations? I signed up for the 10 day pledge and want to do it completely. I have heard you can use honey, oranges, and coconut water but am curious if you or other readers have tried this out. Thanks for any recommendations you may have.
Mandi says
My husband is a marathon runner too! Any advice anyone can give would great! :)
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Claire. After consulting with a physician, Lisa made her own simple version of "Pedialyte": https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2013/01/31/homemade-pedialyte/ for the times her kids are sick and dehydrated. The needs of a runner are obviously different. You should consult with someone in sports medicine to make sure you are getting the right combination of electrolytes. I have seen various combinations of these ingredients on several runners websites and blogs: water, 100% juice, honey, and sea salt. Here is an example of one that also incorporates basil: 5-reasons-to-ditch-the-sports-drinks-plus-a-healthy-alternative. Goodluck. ~Amy