Core Restrictions: The List of Forbidden Foods
For 30 days, the program requires participants to eliminate several food groups believed by Arbonne to negatively affect overall well-being. This approach, often considered an elimination diet, is designed to help reset the body and identify potential food sensitivities. The primary restrictions are detailed below.
Alcohol, Coffee, and Other Stimulants
One of the most notable restrictions is the complete elimination of stimulants, including alcohol and coffee, for the full 30 days.
- Alcohol: All forms of alcohol, such as beer, wine, and spirits, are prohibited.
- Coffee: This includes both regular and decaffeinated coffee, primarily due to caffeine content and acidity. Instead of relying on a caffeine fix, the program encourages using Arbonne's energy fizz sticks.
- Artificial and Added Sugars: This is not explicitly listed on all Arbonne resources, but it is heavily implied through the program's focus on clean eating and the elimination of artificial sweeteners. Processed sugars and high-fructose corn syrup are also avoided.
- Artificial Sweeteners: Sweeteners like sucralose and aspartame are strictly forbidden.
Dairy and Most Soy Products
Many people experience sensitivities to dairy and soy, so these are removed as part of the elimination process.
- Dairy: This includes milk, cheese, yogurt, and any products containing dairy. Non-dairy milk alternatives, like almond milk or coconut milk, are acceptable.
- Soy: With the exception of fermented, non-GMO tempeh, all other soy products, such as edamame, tofu, and soy sauce, are off the table.
Wheat and Gluten-Containing Grains
As a foundational component of the Arbonne program, all products are formulated to be gluten-free, and this extends to the accompanying diet.
- Gluten: All foods containing gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley, must be avoided. This means no bread, pasta, or other products made from these grains.
The Importance of Eliminating Processed and Junk Foods
While the above are the primary forbidden food groups, the overall philosophy of the Arbonne cleanse is to remove processed foods in favor of nutrient-dense, whole foods. This includes eliminating:
- Fast food: Typically high in unhealthy fats and processed ingredients.
- Processed snacks: Such as chips, cookies, and other packaged goods.
What to Eat vs. What to Avoid: A Comparison
To better illustrate the dietary shift required, here is a comparison table outlining the key differences between the eliminated and encouraged food categories.
| Food Category | What to Avoid | What to Eat |
|---|---|---|
| Beverages | Alcohol, coffee, sugary drinks, juices | Water, herbal teas, Arbonne Fizz Sticks |
| Sweeteners | Artificial sweeteners, table sugar, high-fructose corn syrup | Natural, low-sugar fruits like berries (in moderation) |
| Dairy | Milk, cheese, yogurt, ice cream, butter | Non-dairy milks (almond, coconut), certain plant-based spreads |
| Grains | Wheat, rye, barley, gluten-containing products | Complex carbs like quinoa, brown rice, sweet potatoes, legumes |
| Proteins | Some soy products (tofu, edamame), processed meats | Lean proteins (chicken, fish), organic tempeh, legumes, Arbonne shakes |
| Processed Food | Fast food, canned soups, packaged snacks, refined carbohydrates | Whole, unprocessed fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds |
Making the Right Choices on Your Arbonne Cleanse
Successfully navigating the Arbonne 30-day program hinges on diligent food selection and a mindful approach to eating. The program is designed to help participants identify how their bodies react to certain foods by removing common culprits like gluten, dairy, and soy. By replacing these with whole, nutrient-dense foods, the program aims to support overall wellness and energy levels.
It is crucial to remember that this is a temporary elimination diet. It's intended to help form healthier, sustainable habits in the long run. After the 30 days are complete, foods can be slowly reintroduced to see how your body tolerates them. The goal is to build a long-term, healthier relationship with food, not to maintain a restrictive diet indefinitely.
For those with existing health conditions, it's always wise to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new dietary program. For more information on the program's guidelines, resources are available through Arbonne consultants or online at Arbonne's official website.