Understanding the Arbonne 30 Days to Healthy Living Program
Arbonne's "30 Days to Healthy Living" program is a structured elimination diet focusing on whole, plant-based foods while temporarily removing potential allergens and irritants like dairy, gluten, coffee, and alcohol. The goal is to help individuals identify how their bodies respond to certain foods, rather than being a traditional weight-loss diet, although weight loss can occur. The program encourages followers to replace one to two meals per day with an Arbonne protein shake, supplemented by one clean, balanced meal and healthy snacks. Below is a detailed breakdown of the foods you can consume during the plan.
Core Principles of the Diet
The dietary guidelines for the Arbonne plan emphasize eating every four hours to maintain energy levels and prevent overeating. Alongside proprietary Arbonne supplements, participants consume a variety of whole foods rich in protein, healthy fats, complex carbohydrates, and fiber. Hydration is also a crucial element, with recommendations to drink plenty of water.
Approved Foods on the Arbonne Plan
Successfully navigating the Arbonne program means knowing which foods are acceptable. The plan is built around nutrient-dense, plant-based options, with some lean animal proteins also permitted.
Fruits (fresh or frozen):
- Berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries)
- Apples, pears, and citrus fruits
- Peaches, cherries, and grapes
- Avocado (also a healthy fat)
Vegetables:
- Dark leafy greens (spinach, kale, collard greens)
- Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts)
- Colorful vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, tomatoes)
- Root vegetables (sweet potatoes, beets)
- Zucchini, summer squash, and asparagus
Proteins:
- Vegan Proteins: Legumes (lentils, chickpeas, beans), organic tofu, tempeh, peas, quinoa.
- Lean Animal Proteins: Pasture-raised chicken, grass-fed beef, wild-caught fish, and pasture-raised eggs.
Healthy Fats:
- Nut butters (almond, cashew)
- Avocado and coconut oil
- Nuts (almonds, walnuts, pistachios) and seeds (chia, flax, hemp)
- Hummus and tahini
Healthy Carbohydrates and Grains:
- Whole grains (quinoa, brown rice, millet)
- Gluten-free oats
- Lentil, bean, or brown rice-based pastas
Sample Arbonne Meal and Snack Ideas
To give you a better idea of how to structure your eating, here are some sample meals and snacks based on the Arbonne guidelines.
- Breakfast (7:00 a.m.): Arbonne protein shake blended with spinach, berries, and non-dairy milk.
- Lunch (11:00 a.m.): A large kale salad with organic grilled chicken, cucumber, bell peppers, and a tahini dressing.
- Snack (3:00 p.m.): Apple slices with almond butter or a brown rice cake with avocado and seasoning.
- Dinner (7:00 p.m.): Turkey burger served without a bun, accompanied by roasted sweet potatoes and sautéed mushrooms.
Comparing the Arbonne Program to Other Diets
It's useful to compare the Arbonne 30-day program with similar dietary resets, like the popular Whole30, to understand the core differences.
| Feature | Arbonne 30 Days to Healthy Living | Whole30 Diet |
|---|---|---|
| Eliminated Foods | Dairy, gluten, soy (except tempeh), coffee, alcohol, artificial sweeteners. | Sugar, grains, legumes, dairy, alcohol, processed additives, and baked goods with compliant ingredients. |
| Focus | Holistic reset with supplements, focusing on eliminating potential triggers and establishing healthy habits. | Identifying food sensitivities and cravings through a strict 30-day elimination period. |
| Meal Replacements | Encourages replacing 1-2 meals with proprietary Arbonne protein shakes. | Prohibits shakes and liquid meal replacements; emphasizes whole, unprocessed foods. |
| Supplements | Requires purchasing Arbonne supplements like protein powder, detox tea, and digestion support. | No required supplements, though some may be used. Relies on whole foods as the main source of nutrients. |
| Post-Program | Recommends working with a consultant to reintroduce foods and continue using Arbonne products. | Structured reintroduction phase to test sensitivities. |
Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective on the Arbonne Diet
When asking what you can eat in Arbonne, the answer lies in focusing on whole, nutrient-dense foods while strictly avoiding a set list of trigger foods for 30 days. The diet's emphasis on clean eating, hydration, exercise, and stress management are all positive aspects of a healthy lifestyle. However, critics point to the program's reliance on expensive supplements and potentially unnecessary food restrictions for those without diagnosed sensitivities. It is important to approach the program mindfully, focusing on the healthy habits it encourages rather than simply relying on the products. Consulting a healthcare professional before starting any new elimination diet is always recommended, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or concerns. For a scientific perspective on some dietary interventions, research on elimination diets can be valuable, such as the evidence discussed in Healthline. Ultimately, the Arbonne 30-day program offers a guided path to resetting eating habits, but a focus on sustainable, whole-food nutrition is a universal strategy for long-term health, with or without specific products.
