Does a 30/30/30 diet really work?

Author: Cassandra Bosco  |  Last update: Thursday, October 30, 2025

Can the 30-30-30 rule help with weight loss? Social media success stories aside, the 30-30-30 plan has not been the subject of any major scientific studies. Although you may hear about miraculous results, there's no guarantee you will see the same for yourself. Some aspects of the plan can encourage weight loss.

Is the 30/30/30 rule effective for weight loss?

The purported benefits claim that following this daily regimen will result in weight loss. Unfortunately, there are no strong forms of evidence or research that examine this specific method.

How long does it take to see results from 30/30/30?

Brecka claims that the 30-30-30 rule helps the body burn fat without losing muscle, and results can be seen in as little as one month.

Do you actually lose weight on Whole30?

With Whole30, you change what you eat, but it's technically not a traditional ``diet.'' Still, as an added benefit, researchers say that 96% of participants lose weight on the program, without counting calories or weighing or measuring their food. So, it's a win-win life change.

What are the negatives of the Whole30 diet?

3. It could worsen metabolic, digestive, and heart conditions. According to Mikus, people with diabetes, thyroid issues, or gastrointestinal issues such as Crohn's or IBS should definitely check with their doctor before starting it.

Gary Brecka's Diet Plan Explained (30-30-30 for Weight Loss)

Do doctors recommend Whole30?

While the competitive crowd might agree, the doctor says Whole30 is probably not a good idea. “At the end of the day, nutritional advice should be individualized," he says. "It's a very restrictive diet, and it can cause some serious problems.

Why are potatoes OK on Whole30?

But white potatoes are an accessible, nutrient-dense, whole food, and it was an easy call to bring them back into the Whole30 along with other starches and varieties of potatoes. They were added back into the program in 2014, with the exception of commercially-prepared fries or chips.

Can you have coffee on Whole30?

Yes, you can have your coffee. You're welcome. You can drink it black; add unsweetened compatible nutpods, coconut milk, or almond milk; blend in Bub's MCT oil; or add cinnamon or vanilla beans to the brew.

How long does it take to see results from Whole30?

The Whole30 Day by Day to helps you stay motivated, track your non-scale victories, and hold yourself accountable. By the third week, most people notice small (or big) non-scale victories (NSVs) in many areas of their lives: Energy and sleep. Mood, anxiety, and depression.

Is it normal to poop a lot on Whole30?

If your diet was previously low in fiber, you may notice you go to the bathroom more frequently on your Plant-Based Whole30. Though this may require some adjustment, it can be a sign that your digestive system is working properly. Eating more fiber can also change the consistency of your stools, which is normal.

What to eat for breakfast for 30/30/30?

Some effective breakfast choices for doing the 30/30/30 diet plan are:
  • Scrambled eggs with cheese.
  • Smoothie with protein powder.
  • Yogurt mixed with nuts.
  • Cottage cheese paired with pineapple.
  • High-protein bread topped with eggs and cheese.
  • Quinoa bowl with eggs, beans, or cheese.

What foods does Gary Brecka avoid?

The Brecka diet lists the following foods on the avoid list:
  • Refined sugar.
  • White rice.
  • Non-organic produce.
  • Industrial seed oils.

What is the 80 20 rule to lose weight?

Just try to think of your meals in terms of balance. 80% healthy, whole foods, and 20% for fun, less-nutritious treats. The key is consistency over time, not perfection at every meal. So, if one day you have a pizza, no big deal—just aim to get back on track with your next meal.

How long does it realistically take to lose 30 pounds?

The NHS recommends a weight loss target of 1 to 2 lbs per week. This is a realistic and safe amount of weight loss, suitable for the majority of people living with obesity. Based on this rate of weight loss, it'll take between 15 and 30 weeks to achieve 30 lbs of weight loss.

What is the hardest day on Whole30?

My Whole30 Journey: The Dark Days
  • If you follow the Whole30 mood calendars, like the above from Whole30.com, you know that days 10-11 are considered the hardest to get through. ...
  • The good thing about Whole30 is that you can eat eggs and potatoes, so a simple breakfast is easy to make and enjoy.

What are the cons of the Whole30 diet?

The cons of Whole30:
  • Very restrictive, which may make eating out or socializing difficult.
  • May be difficult to get adequate calcium for bone health.
  • Restricts many cultural foods.
  • May be time intensive due to food label reading, meal planning and meal prep.

Has anyone lost weight on Whole30?

That said, plenty of people who try the Whole30 diet do end up losing some weight. “The benefit of Whole30 is that it encourages eating whole foods, which are foods in their most natural state,” says Sara Haas, RDN, a nutrition expert with formal training in the culinary arts.

Is Chick Fil A Whole30 approved?

Chick-fil-A can be a suitable option for Whole30 fast food with careful selection and modifications. Whole30-friendly choices include the fruit cup, ordered without the mandarins in syrup.

Are bananas Whole30?

Yes, both pickles and bananas are allowed on Whole30. Yet if they are a potential trigger food for you (for instance, the sweetness of bananas sets off a craving for other treats or makes you want to binge on the fruit), then you may consider including them on your “don't eat” list.

What is the pancake rule for Whole30?

During the 30-day elimination phase of the Whole30, the Pancake Rule asks you not to include: All baked goods made from alternative flour (bread, tortillas, wraps, crackers, pizza or pie crust, biscuits, pancakes, crepes, waffles, muffins, cupcakes, cookies, and brownies)

Why do I feel so bad on Whole30?

You may have digestive problems and nutrient deficiencies since the diet restricts legumes and grains. It's also possible to develop increased cravings for the foods you eliminate.

Is bacon allowed on Whole30?

You can also eat processed meats as long as they don't include any artificial preservatives or added sugars. So when your bacon craving strikes, stick to sugar-free uncured bacon. A hearty meat-based stew with some nutrient-rich avocado makes a great Whole30® meal.

Is Whole30 anti-inflammatory?

This is the concept behind Melissa and Dallas Hartwig's Whole30 program. By eating non-processed whole foods and ditching grains, dairy, and sugar, you will reduce inflammation in your system, clear up your skin, and revitalize your energy stores. These are just a few of the benefits this program boasts.

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