Home Clean Eating Boot Camp 2013 Welcome to the Clean Eating Boot Camp, 2013!

Welcome to the Clean Eating Boot Camp, 2013!

by Erika Nicole Kendall

Note: You can sign up for the Clean Eating Boot Camp here, completely free!


Let’s make it happen, y’all!

Yes, yes, y’all… welcome!

It is with great pleasure that I introduce you to Clean Eating Boot Camp 2013, converting you from microwaveable heat-n-eat lovers to full blown “Wow, you should have your own cooking show!” all-star chefs.

I’m a staunch advocate for clean eating for anyone who is trying to overcome an emotional eating habit, anyone who wants to lose weight and anyone who simply wants to learn to eat healthier and live a little bit closer to the Earth.

(Oh, you thought I wasn’t going to slip my Earth Mother schtick in here? Chile….)

The reality is that, while there are many people who grew up without making the unhealthy connections to and habits involving processed food, people who can healthily manage their weight and control themselves and their health; I’d also have to surmise that a great deal of us struggle, and for those of us who can admit to struggling, clean eating can be a viable way to overcome that struggle.

I don’t know about you, but my battle with emotional eating was preventing me from being able to, really… be free. I didn’t ever think about being happy or doing things that specifically made me happy anywhere near as much as I thought about using food to make me happy, and it was partly because of the food I was eating, and secondarily because of the way the food was engineered to make me feel. I became addicted to it. I struggled with being able to control myself and I blamed myself for my behavior and my inability to do what, apparently, so many others around me could do.

Removing the processed foods from my life, learning how to cook, understanding and developing a taste for food from different cultures, being able to appreciate what food truly is and what it does… man, listen. I feel free. I feel so unafraid to walk in my kitchen, grab whatever I feel like, and go to work. I feel so unafraid to nourish my body. I don’t feel shame or guilt when I actually enjoy what I’m eating. I don’t have to fear my ability to experience pleasure from food. All of these hang ups I had, all of a sudden weren’t anywhere near as important as they’d once felt. It made it so much easier to move forward.

2008 - last week

Now, I’m much smaller, much healthier, much more fit and I have different goals. I’m on a completely different career path. I’m working towards my first real competition – yes, still… building muscle takes time, man! – but now, with certifications under my belt, I’m more capable of sharing how I’ve done what I’ve done, how it works, and how others can use clean eating to their advantage and make it happen.

As a nutritionist, I can now talk about food in a different way. I have more tools to help people get the understanding they need. I have greater understanding. Aside from coming up on my own personal five year anniversary of beginning my journey, I’m also celebrating my new-found abilities.

This version of the boot camp, I’m gonna make you eat the damn vegetables. I’m gonna teach you to buy seasonal because it’s cheapest. I’m teaching you how to cook those seasonal vegetables. I’m gonna tell you to buy a butternut squash, and I’m gonna teach you to roast that bad boy so well that it tastes like sweet potato. I might even tell you to drop some blue cheese crumbles on top of it. (Afraid to work with fresh cheeses? We’ll talk about that, too.) And only a few crumbles, because quite frankly blue cheese is not, in fact, cheap. (That’s another clean eating tip: spice up inexpensive veggies by using high quality, flavorful additions sparingly. Mmhmm.)

I’m also gonna tell you what that butternut squash can do for your hair, your skin and your colon. I’m gonna show you how to sautee it, and I’m gonna tell you that, if you don’t have inexpensive butternut squash near you, you can always get it on sale and frozen one place in particular.

I’m gonna tell you that it goes great with that god-forsaken kale that everyone struggles with. I’m gonna tell you that it’s a great quick lunch with chickpeas. And, I’m also gonna tell you that it tastes magical. And, if you still don’t like it, that’s okay. I’ll tell you how to spice it in different ways so that you CAN like it and use its cheap ass to your benefit. It doesn’t matter. You’re gonna eat it, though.

This isn’t a four-week-long program. It’s several weeks. It might even be a few months, but we’re all going to do it together. Complete with check-ins and progress reports, good and bad.

And, for this first week, we’re going to shoot for one glass of water every hour. It doesn’t matter the size, it doesn’t matter how much. Just make sure that, for every hour, you’re getting in at LEAST one glass. Set an alarm on your phone, something. Anything. But get in that water!

And, if you want a head’s up on next week’s challenge, here’s the question for the day: how many days a week do you eat fast food or dine out?

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251 comments

Tiffany January 7, 2013 - 12:24 PM

I’m excited!! I’m all in!!

Tia January 7, 2013 - 2:12 PM

The water drinking isn’t a problem at all. I get up to refill every hour now just to get away from my desk. I eat breakfast every morning in the cafe at work so five times a week.

Angela Sims January 7, 2013 - 9:23 PM

So what does this challenge include? I think I want to join

CeCe January 7, 2013 - 12:31 PM

I need help with eating clean. I workout but my eating habits isn’t consistent or healthy at all.

Chells January 7, 2013 - 12:35 PM

This sounds like a great plan. I’m in!

Brittany January 7, 2013 - 12:37 PM

I cant wait!

Tamara January 7, 2013 - 12:43 PM

I am so glad you are doing this! I’ve always had trouble with trying to figure out what to cook and how to cook it. I’ve had so many vegetables in my refrigerator go bad because I don’t know how to cook them or how to make up a meal with what’s in my kitchen! Thaaaaaaaaank you!! Question: Do you (I) need to sign up for the boot camp or will it be available on your site???

Erika Nicole Kendall January 7, 2013 - 12:50 PM

Everything will always be available here, mama. 🙂

FabDelka January 7, 2013 - 12:47 PM

I want in. i love your blog. so down to earth. First part seems simple enough since i do it already. lol

Anne January 7, 2013 - 12:52 PM

YAY!! It’s here and I’m sharing it with my friends who ask how I’ve lost the weight thus far. #teamcleaneating!!!!

shaunsay January 7, 2013 - 12:55 PM

Sounds good..im in..

Emma January 7, 2013 - 12:57 PM

Im so excited!

Ebony January 7, 2013 - 12:58 PM

Let’s do this!! I’m currently in Afghanistan and will be back in a few weeks. I ate out everyday before I left. Since there is no fast food here, I’ve lost 10lbs and still have another 10 to go. I need something to keep me focused. I look forward to eating better and making time to prepare healthy meals for myself. There is only one me and I’ve gotta make this body last!

Aja January 7, 2013 - 12:58 PM

Yay! I’ve been waiting for this. So excited. And to answer your question I probably eat out or fast food once a week. Less when I’m good about sticking closely to my budget.

J Wilson January 7, 2013 - 1:01 PM

Thanks and Happy (belated) New Year!

Pamela K January 7, 2013 - 1:01 PM

I am definitely down with this.

Melody January 7, 2013 - 1:03 PM

I’m all in!! Got my first glass of water on deck!!!!

Brandi Katongole January 7, 2013 - 1:03 PM

I can’t wait!! I’m so excited cuz girl I need help with a capital H!

Candyce Nicole January 7, 2013 - 1:06 PM

This is right on time. Sign me up!

reen January 7, 2013 - 1:08 PM

I’m definitely in! I’m going to attempt the glass of water an hour, does herbal tea count?

Erika Nicole Kendall January 7, 2013 - 1:25 PM

Nope. If you drink tea, that’s on TOP of your one glass of water.

Tasha January 7, 2013 - 1:49 PM

I’m in too!

Christy January 7, 2013 - 1:22 PM

I’m in! Drinking my water now!

Brittany January 7, 2013 - 1:23 PM

I am in!! I have been lurking for some weeks now, but now I am fully ready to take hold of my health and how I treat my body (inside and out). I want that new found appreciation of myself and in the meantime renew my mind so I can take hold of the new habits I will be forming on this journey. Thanks so much and yes…I am ready for the squash! Shoutout to the veggies!

Mika January 7, 2013 - 1:25 PM

Yay I’m so excited! I do pretty well during the week in regards to fast food, but I go crazy on the weekends. I probably eat out 3-4 times

Brittany January 7, 2013 - 1:25 PM

Can’t wait. Is there a sign up for the boot camp

Tira January 7, 2013 - 1:28 PM

I am so ready to start eating clean! Bootcamp here I come!

Maria January 7, 2013 - 1:31 PM

All in I’m starting a new healthier life style and I’m trying to get this natural hair to grow!

Shea A January 7, 2013 - 1:32 PM

Sounds good. I literally just left my PCP’s office who prompting told me I need to get serious about losing weight. Count me in!

Shea A January 7, 2013 - 1:32 PM

*promptly

kiesh January 7, 2013 - 1:35 PM

I’m in! I already kind of started last week. But I can definitely do better!

Korri January 7, 2013 - 1:35 PM

Excited about this clean eating boot camp. I have loss 70 lbs and want to get rid of 50 more. Also when you starting losing a lot of weight, did you have hip pain especially while lying down and sitting?

Faye January 7, 2013 - 1:36 PM

Yay!! let’s do this!

Christie January 7, 2013 - 1:41 PM

I’m truly looking forward to this!!

a.renae January 7, 2013 - 1:47 PM

i’m so ready!

Sanj January 7, 2013 - 1:47 PM

I’m in too!

Shercole January 7, 2013 - 1:48 PM

Im going to try and make it work with you. Drinking water now.

Erica January 7, 2013 - 1:52 PM

Im definitely in! I need to do way better with cooking my own meals.

COS2 January 7, 2013 - 1:59 PM

I’m ready to get started and finally get my eating where it should be!

Habibah January 7, 2013 - 2:00 PM

I am in!!! I released 57lbs while working from home. clean eating, and setting my own workout schedule. I now commute 5 hours per day (from PA to NYC) and I am stuck and beginning to panic. I need a whole new set of skills so that I can continue to on my journey to be my best self!!

Gayathri Jacobs January 7, 2013 - 2:00 PM

I so need to loose weight and get healthy. My 6 year old son got diagnosed with Rhabdomyosarcoma in July and I think I have eaten my anxieties!!! I have gained 40lbs since July and I already had about that much to loose before I started!!!! So need help!!!

Monisa January 7, 2013 - 2:02 PM

I’m so psych! Thank you for putting your time and energy into this!

MOTONYA PARKS January 7, 2013 - 2:07 PM

I’m so excited I’ve been working out but I don’t have the eating part down. Thank you for this bootcamp.

MM January 7, 2013 - 2:07 PM

I’m in!

Eunice January 7, 2013 - 2:09 PM

Yea!!!

Ta-Tanisha January 7, 2013 - 2:10 PM

I am all the way in! I’ve been researching clean eating for a while,tried my hand at it a couple times, but have never been successful at sticking to it. Maybe I will this time! I eat fast food once or twice a week. Looking forward to this challenge!

Dymon January 7, 2013 - 2:10 PM

Before the new year I was eating out four, maybe five times a week. It would get especially bad on the weekend. Between working full time and going to grad school I usually just wanted to go home and stuff my face. But no fast food and making better use of my time (esp. on the weekends) were two of my New Year’s Resolutions and I’m doing my damn best to stick to them!

Kitana January 7, 2013 - 2:10 PM

I just found your blog today and man, do you speak to me! I’m going to be following your clean eating boot camp! Just two weeks ago I stopped being lazy and started actually cooking at night, even though I’m bone tired after work! I already feel 1000x better. 🙂

Monica January 7, 2013 - 2:15 PM

I need to bring my healthy back! I love your blog and can’t wait to start this challenge….Eek! Excited!

Abrazos!

VeraPB January 7, 2013 - 2:16 PM

I am so excited about this. My 19 year old daughter and I have cut out most of our eating out due to budget restraints. Fast food maybe 1 or 2 times a month. We are working on healthier eating but we get bored very quickly and slip up into old habits. It will be great to participate in the Boot Camp.

Taisha January 7, 2013 - 2:17 PM

I am all in I really could use the the help I can get being I am on a very tight budget (1 check and a family of 4). Plus I need to drop 82 pounds… I can not wait for your tips.

Aliese W. January 7, 2013 - 2:18 PM

I would love to change my eating habits. I eat out depending on how I feel. Some weeks I cook everyday or snack from home and other weeks I eat chipotle everyday.

Lanika January 7, 2013 - 2:23 PM

This is great! I’m in!

Quiet Storm January 7, 2013 - 2:32 PM

I’m in.

antoinette January 7, 2013 - 2:33 PM

Ok, I’m in…ready to eat healthier and drop the weight. I plan to drink a glass of water during the last 10 mins of every hour. Thank you! 🙂

Nicki January 7, 2013 - 2:40 PM

I’m in!! #LetsGo

Jenn January 7, 2013 - 2:43 PM

Thanks for the reminder to drink my water! Will be following along with your boot camp!

CurlyCurves January 7, 2013 - 2:46 PM

I’m so looking forward to this and will be blogging about it all the way!!! My husband is a Chef but cooking healthy at home isn’t necessarily his specialty. Whatevers quick and fried! So I’m taking over the cooking from here on out!! We have to get healthy ASAP I really want to get pregnant this year but the doctor said weight loss first! So here goes nothing!!!

Brittany January 7, 2013 - 2:53 PM

Yay!!! So excited to give this a try! I’ve been researching clean eating for a little while now and am excited to see you’re doing a 2013 bootcamp. Can’t wait for all of the insight and support you have to offer. Thank you!

Keisha January 7, 2013 - 2:53 PM

I am definitely in!!

Andrea January 7, 2013 - 2:55 PM

Please count me in! I try to drink at least 10-12 cups per day of water and I usually eat out 3-4 times a week. I really need some tips and guidance thanks!

phyllis January 7, 2013 - 2:58 PM

I’m ready for a change

Nodisha January 7, 2013 - 3:01 PM

I’m ready!! I’m in!!! But first I gotta pee. lol

Jas January 7, 2013 - 3:14 PM

This is great since a lot of churches are starting out the new year with a Daniel Fast. I’m doing Weight Watchers right now and butternut squash is 0 points!! I roast one, puree half for my daughter and eat the other half. I’ve had it with kale and it IS delicious!

El January 7, 2013 - 3:27 PM

Let me sing you the love song of my people for butternut squash.

Wait no, because my inability to sing will have me banned from your site forever.

Bring on the veggie ideas. I have shoppin’ to do!

Erika Nicole Kendall January 7, 2013 - 10:38 PM

Aye. I love a good tune. ROFL

Faye Venable January 7, 2013 - 3:30 PM

wow i so want to be in on this boot camp, i really need to get my act together

Crystal January 7, 2013 - 3:42 PM

I’m in as well! Is there anything else we need to do? Do we just keep checking your site daily/weekly? Or will we get email alerts? *Trying to hold myself accountable*

Erika Nicole Kendall January 7, 2013 - 10:37 PM

Yes ma’am… just an everyday thing!

Kimberly Alexander January 7, 2013 - 3:45 PM

I am all in ready to shed the weight.

Nicola January 7, 2013 - 3:48 PM

I am in! I think this is a great way to change gradually instead of my all or nothing approach that usually loses steam. Thank you!

cjbrownsc January 7, 2013 - 3:49 PM

So glad you decided to do this!

I’m IN!!

prettycurls January 7, 2013 - 3:51 PM

count me in.

Mel January 7, 2013 - 4:01 PM

I’m excites about learning from you! Keep up the excellent work!

Mel January 7, 2013 - 4:02 PM

Excited*

Tightwadswife January 7, 2013 - 4:04 PM

Count me in!

Robin January 7, 2013 - 4:08 PM

I’m in. Very excited.

KeKe January 7, 2013 - 4:13 PM

I’m super excited! All in!

Sonali January 7, 2013 - 4:17 PM

SO excited!!!!! Thank you Erika!!!!

Tessa January 7, 2013 - 4:37 PM

I am in! Thanks for all the information you provide to a healthier lifestyle.

Michelle January 7, 2013 - 4:45 PM

I have tried to do clean eating a lot of times but I can never stick with it. I am going to take you up on your challenge and start with the water, and I eat out everyday. i feel like I never have time to cook.Or when i do have time no energy

Rae January 7, 2013 - 5:13 PM

Maybe once a week. On a lazy week, I’ll order a sandwich from a nearby deli and split it over two meals (dinner, then lunch/dinner the next day) so I don’t feel as bad about it. I also eat out with a group of friends about once a month (usually thai or a ramen bar).

So looking forward to this. Changing my diet has been a goal on my peripheral for a while, but I needed the fire under my rump to really do it.

Yolanda January 7, 2013 - 5:30 PM

I’m ready to commit to eating the right way after failed diet plans. Thank you for the valuable information and pushing us to stop making excuses! Starting with water should be easy enough 🙂

DannieElise January 7, 2013 - 5:44 PM

Aw snap!!! 2013 is starting off with a bang! Thank you Erika! =) My only concern is….I live in town where stores like WholeFoods and TraderJoes don’t exist…so I’m hoping I’ll be able to find the kind of foods you’ll be introducing us to at a regular ‘ol grocery store.

Erika Nicole Kendall January 7, 2013 - 10:37 PM

Talk to me. What’s available at the stores you DO have?

DannieElise January 7, 2013 - 11:10 PM

Well there is definitely a produce section! But I have found that organic food options are very limited at my local grocery stores. I don’t know what clean eating is all about just yet…I’m excited for you to school me; but I immediately thought about organic products, which I know I’ve had trouble finding in the past. Perhaps this isn’t even a big part of clean eating? =) When I lived in bigger cities, I shopped at Publix, Dominick’s, WholeFoods and TraderJoes – where I could pretty much find anything. But the grocery stores in my current town just seem to be lacking…

Dee January 8, 2013 - 12:06 AM

Do you have a Harris Teeter or Kroger? I know those places usually have great fresh veggies and the foods you cant find. I love shopping there.

DannieElise January 8, 2013 - 1:03 PM

Hi Dee! Thanks for the suggestions. We don’t have those stores either, Lol.

Chells January 9, 2013 - 4:18 PM

Are there any small fruit and vegetable markets near you? I’m in a big city that has plenty of grocery stores but I always make a special trip to the small neighborhood produce market because it’s cheaper and has a large organic section (if that is what you require).

Briggitta January 7, 2013 - 5:45 PM

Just downloaded an app to remind me to drink water 🙂
And as to your question about dining out, twice a month at most , and it is usually for Indian or Korean food.

robbin January 7, 2013 - 6:38 PM

I’m in. That word water is lacking in my vocabulary, seems its been erased from my dictionary. Need to get it back..

Angie January 7, 2013 - 7:11 PM

Thank you for your support. I so appreciate your commitment to us. I am determined to apply what I am learning to my life and the life of my family. I want us all healthy and (mo’) beautiful.

Margie January 7, 2013 - 7:18 PM

Sounds great! Can’t wait to get started.

Ash January 7, 2013 - 7:32 PM

I’m in!!!!

shar January 7, 2013 - 8:05 PM

I’m in!

HeatherE January 7, 2013 - 8:05 PM

I have been reading this site for over a year and learned so much, but have never done the bootcamp. Most weeks we get fast food once a week. But once the extended family all left, I realized I was burnt out from cooking and we have eaten take-out the last 3 nights in a row! Yikes…. I need a reset.

KiWi January 7, 2013 - 8:09 PM

I’m so excited and ready to learn!!

I was doing good in 2011. Lost 38 lbs and was feeling so proud of myself and then this fall managed to gain 17 back from stress eating. I’m ready to have this monkey off my back. This year I’m dealing with the root cause and treating the symptoms.

Your blog has been such a blessing!!!!! Thank you for being you.

lisa January 7, 2013 - 8:10 PM

Im in.

Katrinda January 7, 2013 - 8:10 PM

I’m in and I eat fast food usually 2 to 3 times a week…

Melissa January 7, 2013 - 8:13 PM

I have been following you for a while now and I have been slowly changing my habits and food choices. I love reading your blog, I’ve learned so many new things and also had support for information I have learned from studying health and wellness, nutrition etc. I have lost 30 lbs from trying to eat clean only. I haven’t worked out regularly since the summer. I just want to thank you and say I’m ready for this challenge!! Bring it!

melorie January 7, 2013 - 8:15 PM

I am in.

OhMeSoSassy January 7, 2013 - 8:15 PM

I’ve been following you on Facebook for a while and I enjoy all of the post. I have gotten sick and tired of being sick and tired of being FAT and I’m really ready to do something about it. This will help keep me accountable because I LOVE fast food… it’s really sad…. So I’m ready to be the healthiest Sassy I can be!

KiWi January 7, 2013 - 8:19 PM

And I’ve been eating out once a week.

Vanity January 7, 2013 - 8:28 PM

Im ready!! One glass of water every hour, check!

twistedsista January 7, 2013 - 8:29 PM

I am in. So excited to have so many people to do it with!!

Alicia January 7, 2013 - 8:33 PM

I have the water part down already. I am ready for everything else.

Erika Nicole Kendall January 7, 2013 - 10:35 PM

Oh, you fancy, huh? ROFL

AngelHeart January 7, 2013 - 8:33 PM

It’s great to hear of this site and the info and support you are providing to women like myself. I have a goal of 200lbs to lose but struggle how to do it as a lifestyle change. I have the energy but not the drive to do it. If I can get the daily help with meal plans, snacks and portion size it would be of great help. I currently drink 4-16.9 ounces of water a day. Is this equivilent to the glass of water you are advising? Please help me!

Erika Nicole Kendall January 7, 2013 - 10:35 PM

All I’m advocating for is a glass of water on the hour every hour. However many ounces you want to get in, make sure you get it in by getting in a glass every hour that you’re awake. That’s it. 🙂

Tuggi January 7, 2013 - 8:42 PM

I’m all in! I’ve been trying to go clean and failing for a while. Recipes and breakfast tend to be my downfall. How do I participate? Will I need to check in here daily, weekly, etc for updates? Thanks for this! I’m very excited!

Erika Nicole Kendall January 7, 2013 - 10:34 PM

Just keep checking back here for more missions, mama!

Kimmoy January 7, 2013 - 8:44 PM

I’m really looking forward to your vegetable recipes. I had roasted veggies for Thanksgiving and haven’t stopped eating ’em since, I mean roasted onions, yes onions are delish! I’m checking out sites like veggie venture, cook smarts, and stone soup for ideas, but excited to see your take on it with the bootcamp, whoop, whoop!

Lauren January 7, 2013 - 9:17 PM

To answer the qotd I eat out at least once a week it used to be 2-3 times though. I’m very excited about joining the clean eating out camp

Lauren January 7, 2013 - 9:18 PM

*boot

Jo January 7, 2013 - 9:23 PM

YES! This is wonderful!

Jasmine January 7, 2013 - 9:29 PM

Seems like I have stumbled upon this right on time! I’m in and definitely looking forward to the challenge each week. Bottoms up to the water glasses ladies and cheers to gaining health!

Jodi-Ann January 7, 2013 - 9:32 PM

I’m so in! I started my healthy eating journey after Thanksgiving and I’m really happy to have a place to find recipes and like minded people. Let’s go!!

Joy January 7, 2013 - 9:39 PM

Im down.

I eat fast twice a week max, usually when I don’t plan. I ate it last night because I was upset. I knew it was the wrong choice but I made it any way. So ready to be free from emotional eating

Shawn January 7, 2013 - 9:39 PM

I’m looking forward to it! I don’t like vegetables and am looking forward to the recipes.

Jodi-Ann January 7, 2013 - 9:42 PM

Oh and another question, do you recommend we download one of the meal plans you linked at the bottom of this post, or will there be new plans for this challenge?

Erika Nicole Kendall January 7, 2013 - 10:33 PM

I’ll be teaching you how to build your own meal plans, so you don’t have to spend the money; the meal plans I sell aren’t affiliated with this at all, and I won’t be charging a dime for participation.

However…if you want to get a head start, and you want to support th blog, I’ll gladly take that $5. 😉

CeeCee January 7, 2013 - 9:47 PM

I’m in needed this badly.

I eat good during the week,but eat out all weekend.

Leslie January 7, 2013 - 9:47 PM

How can I join the boot camp?

Erika Nicole Kendall January 7, 2013 - 10:33 PM

Just keep checking back every day, mama!

Tiffany January 7, 2013 - 10:29 PM

I’m in, I’ve been a reading your website for a long time but I just never built up the courage to comment.

Erika Nicole Kendall January 7, 2013 - 10:32 PM

No reason to fear, mama! Come on in! The water’s fine. 🙂

Sameialika January 7, 2013 - 11:46 PM

I’m all in, Erika!

Toya January 7, 2013 - 11:49 PM

I am ALL IN….Im tired being this way of..I only have about 20 pounds to lose but I want to change my habits, tone, and be healthy overall…will be checking in too late to start today but tomorrow is another day. Good Luck everyone God Bless.

Jrenee January 7, 2013 - 11:50 PM

You mentioned a key word for me…cheap. I’m a grad student and I definitely need this! Count me in.

Karen January 7, 2013 - 11:52 PM

Yessss! Count me in………I do pretty good with the no processed foods but variety is what im lacking! excited! I have a weight loss goal of 15 lbs

DfromB January 8, 2013 - 12:00 AM

Didn’t get to log on til late this afternoon, so I’m catching up on the water. Really excited about the boot camp. I eat out WAY too many nights a week. Tho it’s not fast food , it’s still too expensive and UNHEALTHY. My lack of planning my meals are a huge problem. Can’t wait to try these new recipes. I do want to say that I did attempt to make the Arugula and goat cheese pizza and I loved it. I found a flax seed and wheat pita at the grocery and it worked nicely.

Dee January 8, 2013 - 12:01 AM

I love clean eating. Since I have changed the way I eat, I only eat fresh vegetables and fruits. I can say since doing that I have lost over 100lbs. My friends and co-workers are noticing the weight loss and asking me how I’m doing it. To answer the question of the day: I would say I eat out maybe 1 a mth. If I do eat out, I always watch what I’m eating and go to restaurants that I know will have low cal menus. If not then I never finish my food. I’m loving the change and excited!

Julie January 8, 2013 - 12:12 AM

I’m In

Ashleigh January 8, 2013 - 12:13 AM

I am ALL the way in!! I just started tracking what I eat using MyFitnessPal and I’m starting to feel disheartened because staying under my calorie goal leaves me feeling all wrong but I know I can’t go on overeating everyday.
So I am in. Starting tomorrow, I’ll set an alarm once an hour for a glass of water.
Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge and experience for free when you could easily set up shop and charge money I know I don’t have.

tammy January 8, 2013 - 12:14 AM

I’m in.

Janeen January 8, 2013 - 12:16 AM

This is what I love, a good challenge!!

Karen January 8, 2013 - 12:17 AM

Let’s do this. I am with Cece. I can workout all day but I love sweets and processed foods. I need mind control!! I am going to stick with it.

Rosalind January 8, 2013 - 12:21 AM

I really want to learn about clean eating so I’m super excited to learn more & to start this journey!

Melessa Williams January 8, 2013 - 12:29 AM

Im so in…cant wait…1 8oz glass per hour coming up as from tomorrow…I dont eat fast food but oh I do love sweets, carbs and fattening home cooking…sigh

Tish January 8, 2013 - 12:34 AM

I’m in. As for your question, I don’t eat fast food often (quite rare actually) but I do buy lunch at work often enough. My options aren’t bad, living in the Caribbean most of the food is prepared with fresh ingredients. I don’t worry about most of it but my problem isn’t so much the food being offered, it’s what I chose to eat. I’m always in need of support and look forward to reporting back.

rocky January 8, 2013 - 12:50 AM

1st day – Epic Fail:-( Tomorrow, I’ll carry a water bottle around all day. Baby steps.

Erika Nicole Kendall January 8, 2013 - 8:42 AM

I DO recommend this bottle. And I carry it around with me like it’s an oxygen tank.

Nunnie January 8, 2013 - 12:42 PM

I’m in water,no fast food NEW LIFE Doctor Orders This is for my hesrt THANK YOU & GOD BLESS

Ceej January 8, 2013 - 12:58 AM

I’m in!

You should warn folks that one glass of water every hour means going to the bathroom every hour, too! LOL!

TeeNikki January 8, 2013 - 1:14 AM

I’m alllllllll over this. I already declared going 95% natural starting this year. Off to a pretty good start. I haven’t bought sugar in 2 years, and I’m starting to cut off buying sweets. The 5% will come in on those rare occassions I’m at a function or at church and I don’t eat at home. Everything in my house is gonna be RIGHT!!!

Jaida January 8, 2013 - 1:33 AM

I’m definitely going to try to get in on this challenge. I’ve fallen off the health and fitness bandwagon a few times, but I really want to be dedicated in 2013 and changing my eating habits has to be the first step!

Now to answer the question, I haven’t been eating as much fast food as I have in the past, but if I had to estimate, I’d say I buy fast food at least twice a week.

Brittny January 8, 2013 - 1:39 AM

I so need this and I’m ready!

stephanie ali January 8, 2013 - 2:03 AM

Since becoming such an adamant reader of bbg2wl I have cut out my dining ventures to about twice a month compared to every other day in my past. I have lost 70lbs total since march 2012 I am going to strive hard to do this boot camp challenge and really regain focus on losing an additional 25lbs lately I have began to struggle with still eating certain processed foods mostly when I just don’t have the time or I am at work so I would like to regain my ability to alleviate the processed foods out of my life all together!! Erika you ROCK!!!

Erika Nicole Kendall January 8, 2013 - 8:41 AM

Wait, you lost all that just from reading here?

Bre January 8, 2013 - 2:25 AM

All I drink is water and green tea with acv in it…but this boot camp sho is still for me! Cuz I eat fast food the majority of the week (I hate cooking…or more like, the cleaning up that comes afterwards). Isn’t that ironic?

nicole January 8, 2013 - 2:43 AM

I’m in 🙂

Pam January 8, 2013 - 3:51 AM

Hi Erika! Count me in. I drink half of my body weight in water, but I’d like to get on more of a schedule, so a glass an hour sounds perfect. I am eager to begin this challenge. As a vegetarian, I already consume plenty of fruits & veggies as well as whole grains, but haven’t quite been able to pull away from meat analogues yet, so this definitely will be a challenge.

Kf January 8, 2013 - 3:56 AM

I’m in!

Tamerill January 8, 2013 - 6:21 AM

Looking forward to the knowledge!

Jashona January 8, 2013 - 8:38 AM

I too have been lurking. I hate vegetables, but I know they need to be incorporated into my life. I started a workout boot camp this morning, and am starting clean eating boot camp right now. I’ve gained a persistent of weight from steroids for my lungs over the past 3 years and now it’s time for it to go!

Tuggi January 8, 2013 - 10:05 AM

Ive tried to cut back on my eating out and if I do, I try to select the healthier options although it isn’t very clean. I’d have to say I probably eat out maybe 3x a week.

Jennifer January 8, 2013 - 10:54 AM

I’m looking forward to it! I have learned so much from this site and can’t wait for more. Usually, I drink about 3-4 16 oz. bottles of water each day, and in terms of eating out it depends on how well I’ve done with buying groceries. When I’ve gone to the grocery store, I don’t eat out at all. When I haven’t, then probably 3-5 days a week (we are talking breakfast, lunch and/or dinner).

Helena Griffin January 8, 2013 - 11:23 AM

How do we sign up to check in?

Kamla-Kay January 8, 2013 - 11:24 AM

throwing a toe in…excited? not sure, but lemme go get a glass of water right now!

Shinae January 8, 2013 - 12:00 PM

I am so over the being a “big girl” heck I am over 40 and I hope to be able to show my before and after on yr site. I AM SO IN!!!

Is there somewhere on here that i might get tips about how to shop for some of the spices and veggies I don’t yet know? I am sure they will become staples so glad I caught this on my fb feed, even if I am a day late…water every hour…I am on it!

Kristina January 8, 2013 - 12:53 PM

I eat out all the time and all the wrong stuff

Carol H. January 8, 2013 - 1:15 PM

Sounds awesome, I love a challenge. I’m in!

Robyn G January 8, 2013 - 1:38 PM

I am so in!! Excited 🙂 I need this right now

Delmar January 8, 2013 - 1:40 PM

I’m in, the water, no fast food, New Life, I eat out on week end no more, this is what my doctor order for my heart Thank You & GOD BLESS.

Missie Quinn January 8, 2013 - 2:08 PM

There are a many drinking water apps that you can download. I just downloaded “water your body” Let’s Do IT!!

Tazzee January 8, 2013 - 2:24 PM

I’m so ready for this. I eat out almost daily – mainly for lunch. As I stated in your post asking if we wanted this – I work full time and have class 2 nights per week. Now that football season is ending, I plan to commit my Sundays to meal planning.

I’m so excited!

Demi January 8, 2013 - 3:15 PM

Ok, so I have made up in my mind that I am not going to start or end this year like last year’s, so I’m going to join your boot camp. I need someone to stay on my tail and fuss at me about doing the right thing. It appears from your blog above that you do just that but with a positive, constructive mannerism, so count me in!!! Going to start with my first glass of water now. 🙂

Kyra January 8, 2013 - 3:16 PM

I’m a day late but I’m going to try!

Monee January 8, 2013 - 3:47 PM

I want to join! but For the water part, does flavored water count? As in flavoring it with different fruits?

Michelle January 8, 2013 - 3:48 PM

Im all in!!!!!

Aptlife January 8, 2013 - 4:30 PM

I’m so excited for this! I drink plenty of water, but the one glass per hr is damn smart.

Jovette January 8, 2013 - 5:33 PM

I’m in! *sipping water*

Landree January 8, 2013 - 5:47 PM

Hooray I’m in too! 🙂 I LOVE YOUR SITE.

K. Scott January 8, 2013 - 7:36 PM

I’m in.

E January 8, 2013 - 7:52 PM

Hey Im in powwww! Lol btw i saw u but u were moving lol could not catch u! Love the site we spoke via twitter last year and since then I’ve loss 45 lbs THANKS!

DfromB January 8, 2013 - 9:23 PM

I was wondering if you’ve done anything on the “right kind of water we should be drinking. Not to complicate the drinking a bottle every hour, but I was wondering what is the difference in reverse osmosis vs deionized vs….etc. which is the best without having to supplement anything?

Erika Nicole Kendall January 11, 2013 - 8:08 AM

To be quite honest, I’m not entirely convinced it makes a difference, especially in regards to the kind of effect I want the water to have on you, you know?

I’m certainly not opposed to a little research, but in terms of bodily function in the way I wanted THIS to happen, it doesn’t make much difference.

Kim January 8, 2013 - 10:36 PM

I’m ready for the challenge.

Mirah January 8, 2013 - 11:08 PM

Just discovered this website and am already in love with it. I’m ready for this bootcamp.

Lekeya January 8, 2013 - 11:58 PM

Sounds Great!! Im in.

Lisa January 9, 2013 - 8:23 AM

Every hour? That’s a lot of water. That will be a challenge for me, but sign me up!

alexandria January 9, 2013 - 12:13 PM

I am so in

RaRa January 9, 2013 - 12:47 PM

I’m in, what a great start for the New Year

Tes January 9, 2013 - 1:50 PM

Lets do this! Im all in.Ready-set-go!

Kimberly January 9, 2013 - 6:44 PM

I’m in!!!!

Kisha Monique January 9, 2013 - 10:43 PM

I’m going to really try…I need to make some real change this year.

Bobbi January 11, 2013 - 3:08 AM

I’m in. I’m good about eating clean at home. The problems start on days I have activities after work like teaching dance class or when I’m out of the house all day on weekends. Still usually not fast food but I definitely eat out then. So probably three times a week including lunches. My big struggle is snacking Not eating out

Ashley January 11, 2013 - 10:26 AM

I’m in – ready to begin this journey to wellness! I call it “Operation: Get Me Bodied.” 🙂

Mechelle January 12, 2013 - 3:08 AM

I’m in for the clean eating!!!

LBrooke January 12, 2013 - 3:19 AM

Okay, excited! I’m in too!! I wish I could come to you as a patient– or you write a super detailed book! I wish my brain was all you right now!

Nesha January 12, 2013 - 3:21 AM

Im in and ready as well! I wanna be beach ready this summer but mostly important healthy!! 🙂

Mia Phillips January 12, 2013 - 3:57 AM

I’m in…where do I sign up?

Kim January 12, 2013 - 5:12 AM

I’m in! I definitely want to eat clean. I have allergies, eczema & diagnosed as being over 40…perimenopause y’all. I don’t make lunches for work so I dine out 5-6 days a week.

shemeeka simmons January 12, 2013 - 9:20 AM

Thank you for the support! I am starting my clean eating journey and no matter how long it takes to “click”…I’m in it for the long haul!

NativeNuYorker January 12, 2013 - 10:58 AM

I am going to spend sometime today and tomorrow reading and getting vital information about clean eating. I’m not quite sure what it is other than eliminating processed foods. I for one don’t even know what is considered processed. Is it everything that was not living or grown at one time? I do know that American’s eat too much of it. Count me in because I am focused on changing my eating habits and becoming healthier.

Erika Nicole Kendall January 13, 2013 - 6:34 AM

Start here. 😉

Tricia January 12, 2013 - 11:16 AM

I absolutely love your blog. I have been an emotional eater, oh, probably all my life. After having kids, I just kept gaining weight. I started to think I couldn’t get a handle on it, that there was nothing I could do. Of course I was eating crap, eating too much, and barely exercising. A year and a half ago something switched. I started really exercising, cutting back on my calories, and it has been a long slow process. At one point I had lost 40 pounds. At the moment I have gained 6 back (crap) and I am a little panicked and ready to get going again. Thank you so much for this website – it really helps me!

Jenaee January 12, 2013 - 10:17 PM

I’m in!!! ready to change my eating habits for good!!! 🙂

Tonia January 15, 2013 - 12:14 PM

I just asked about week one and then I stumbled upon it! This looks exciting and I wanna be down! LOL

Tiffany January 16, 2013 - 12:05 AM

water isn’t an issue. love it!
now going out to eat…about 4-5 times a week. smh…

Naylahknee January 21, 2013 - 3:12 PM

I’m late but in. I soooo wanna have another baby and my lil sis is eating married sept 2014 – she asked ME to be a bridesmaid – ME – SERIUOSLY? With boobs thi big! Ugh!

Crystal January 22, 2013 - 5:03 PM

I know I’m late getting into this but I am in!! because of school and work.. once I leave work, im looking for something quick and usually reach for wendys a couple times a week. In general Ive gone for fast food over homecooked at least 2 or 3 times a week; but not every week though. Dinning with my other half we have gone just about every 2 weeks or so we would try to dine out somewhere, usually, thai, or chinese or tgif etc.

Brooklyn PeeWee January 23, 2013 - 9:52 PM

Who doesn’t like kale?! Seriously? I LOVE the stuff. A bunch washed and stripped of stems placed in a hot pan with a tiny bit of coconut oil, fresh garlic, hot pepper flakes, and freshly ground black pepper. OR … kale chips. Oh man. Those are addictive. I bought a dehydrator just for them! Ok, so I’m late joining the boot camp but I’m in.

Katrina Gray-Parker February 2, 2013 - 4:59 PM

Hi Erika: I just found your site while looking for a diet. WOW what luck! I need your help…I’m 63, 4’10” and I86 pounds. I love what I’ve read and want to join. What is my first step? Should I start drinking my water now aty 3:58pm or start tomorrow morning?

Erika Nicole Kendall February 4, 2013 - 11:23 PM

Now, mama. Now.

P-Riv February 4, 2013 - 1:29 PM

I’m kinda late but I am gonna do this!!

Lakeesha February 11, 2013 - 12:14 PM

I know I’m late and you’re already on wk 6 but I’d like to start the bootcamp anyway. Will you be keeping the posts up for those of us that found it late?

Erika Nicole Kendall February 11, 2013 - 3:37 PM

Of course. 🙂

NYREDDBONE February 11, 2013 - 3:47 PM

I know I am late too, but I NEED In 😉

Tiara February 16, 2013 - 1:12 PM

5 weeks late is better than not at all, right???? Anyhow, I’m an emotional eater. And I eat quick service everyday. And you should know, I work as a Manager at a quick service restaurant!

Candice February 17, 2013 - 9:17 PM

I’m tardy to the party, but I so want to do this challenge. Love your site! Starting tomorrow.

Jewellz February 18, 2013 - 12:47 AM

Count me in. Erika please keep us up to date. What is the $5.00 bucks for? I am ready for Boot Camp!

Erika Nicole Kendall February 18, 2013 - 8:46 AM

No, no – the boot camp is free! The meal plans – though they can be a help – aren’t necessary for participation. I sell the plans to help pay for the hosting of the blog… because it’s crazy expensive. LOL

Jewellz February 18, 2013 - 9:57 AM

So does new challenges begin on each Sunday?

Erika Nicole Kendall February 18, 2013 - 10:48 AM

Every Monday. 🙂

Jewellz February 18, 2013 - 9:55 AM

So we can start now? How often do you post information?

Erika Nicole Kendall February 18, 2013 - 10:45 AM

Weekly! Check the “Clean Eating Boot Camp 2013” category on the side for all of the steps!

Jewellz February 18, 2013 - 11:36 AM

Does each challenge carry over into the following weeks? Or a new challenge cancels out the previous? I

Erika Nicole Kendall February 19, 2013 - 10:41 AM

All challenges carry over into the following weeks!

Gabrielle February 27, 2013 - 2:02 AM

Hi, quick question… Isn’t a glass of water every hour too much water? 16 glasses/ day? Just starting out. Thx for your blog. 🙂

Erika Nicole Kendall February 27, 2013 - 8:17 AM

I didn’t say 16 8oz glasses; I just said “a glass of water every hour.” It’s up to YOU how much to drink. 🙂

Gabrielle February 27, 2013 - 9:51 AM

Thx!

Kristin B March 12, 2013 - 7:00 AM

Thank you so much for this! I have been looking like crazy for a way to slowly become a clean eater. I starting 13 weeks behind but I’m so excited.

Leslie March 17, 2013 - 6:18 PM

I am so excited to do this! This is everything I have been wanting to do. Thank you Erika!!!

Brittany M. Cottman March 18, 2013 - 8:49 PM

I’m starting the challenge late, but I’m starting NOW and I’m excited!

Whitney March 25, 2013 - 7:39 PM

Starting with week 1 today.

Kay April 6, 2013 - 9:52 AM

I just found this! I am jumping in! No time to lose! Thank you for this!
BTW… I would love a t-shirt with your website artwork… Eventhough, I am thick right now… I would wear it with pride/ On my way…and this time for life!

Roxi April 7, 2013 - 2:17 AM

I have been following your blog and even suggested it to a couple of my friends. I am ready to start the boot camp.. I don’t mind drinking water. Is adding lemon okay?
Its just a little harder to do when you work a retail job. I get all types of side-eye when i have to call someone to cover my dept to use the bathroom.

Erika Nicole Kendall April 7, 2013 - 1:57 PM

Lemon is okay!

Sonya Moss April 7, 2013 - 11:00 PM

Super Late But I’m Here & I’m All In.

kathleen April 10, 2013 - 10:22 AM

I am innnnnnnnn, can not wait…

T'ara April 15, 2013 - 7:04 PM

I’m in! How often do we check-in?

Erika Nicole Kendall April 16, 2013 - 6:30 AM
Gabrielle April 16, 2013 - 12:23 PM

Hi Erika, just wondering, have you found anything helpful for dealing w/ low energy? I don’t drink caffeinated beverage as it makes me anxious but wish I knew something to help naturally.

Erika Nicole Kendall April 16, 2013 - 4:14 PM

If I am running low on energy, I just try to reassess my eating habits. If I’m feeling unenergetic, chances are high that it’s because I haven’t eaten properly that day. A banana or a bunch of berries usually does the trick for me.

Anetra W May 9, 2013 - 10:52 AM

Better late than never! I’m ready!

Lady J May 14, 2013 - 5:27 PM

Late to the party, but I’m in! I have been eating much cleaner for about 1 year. Only eat out once a week on Sunday mornings, but not fast food. Gave fast food up a long time ago. Just could not eat something that I didn’t know what it was made of or where it came from! Thanks for all you do and share with us on your site ~~ J ~~

Tot May 29, 2013 - 4:11 PM

I am just starting but I am here

Jacqu'e June 20, 2013 - 10:36 PM

I’m so excited to get started!

KaY June 25, 2013 - 3:15 AM

Im a late comer to this : ) I dont eat fast food ever currently….and i only eat fish..no land animal…but im still not routine in my eatting patterns. I want to be healthy for a lifetime. i want to know how to eat everday. right now ive fallen off of the wagon and its back to sodas and snacks . So here i am …Im very excited and the water is a great step ! great site and good luck ladies.

Sarah September 6, 2013 - 8:38 PM

I wish I had found this in time to follow along as you did it but I’m excited for all the info I’m going to be able to get here. I’ve been working out pretty regularly but the eating side of things is out of control. My biggest downfall is soda. But to quote the country song – I’m much too young to feel this damn old.

Khaliha September 23, 2013 - 1:56 AM

I’m in

Rissa September 23, 2013 - 9:01 AM

How can I get info about signing up for boot camp?

lthurm0409 September 23, 2013 - 9:46 AM

I’m down! I’ve been incorporating clean eating for the past few weeks, but I can definitely step it up a notch! Let’s do this thing!

Monica September 23, 2013 - 8:55 PM

I’m all in

Vonni October 24, 2013 - 10:54 PM

Thank you so much. You do not know how much of a blessing you are bringing!

Miami December 19, 2013 - 4:39 PM

I’m in!

Jem December 28, 2013 - 2:43 PM

Glass of water an hour is not hard for me to do….if you don’t count the remembering to do it. I usually ended up compensating by drinking several when I remembered. I do need more water, and the more water I’m drinking, the less likely I am to eat when I’m actually thirsty.

And if I’m still hungry after a glass of water…..I’m probably honestly hungry!

Renee January 1, 2014 - 12:40 AM

I in! Ready to start a healthier lifestyle .

Jonia January 11, 2014 - 1:48 AM

I’m gonna do my best I’m not a huge water drinker. I’m really not a drinker at all I can go all day and realize I’ve maybe had one cup of coffee…so hopefully this helps! I’m really excited about a healthier lifestyle and a healthier me. I gained 40lbs in a year from eating out and I want to give them back to wherever they came from lol

Andrea January 11, 2016 - 12:50 AM

I’m in. I turn 60 and can’t going around in a circle.I. believe small & steady steps may do more than my habit of. BIG. steps that I don’t continue.

Comments are closed.