This week I had friends from out of town visiting me. While they were here we spent a good amount of time eating out, going to bars and staying up late. Waking up this morning not feeling so wonderful got me thinking — When I look around at the women I’m friends with, I’ve noticed a disproportionate amount of them are usually healthier eaters than myself and my guy friends. They are usually in somewhat better shape too.
I want to change this.
Many people suggest things like “go vegan” or “go paleo”. The problem is, I like meat, dairy, and wheat. Whether it’s healthy or not to completely cut foods out of your diet can be debated until we’re blue in the face. The fact is I simply don’t want to stop eating these things. I enjoy them regardless of their health benefit or lack thereof.
What I’ve decided is that Starting Monday April 30th I, along with other friends and followers on Twitter, will be going on a self-imposed cleanse diet for at least one week, potentially the whole month. We are calling it #ManCleanse May.
The rules are as follows. From breakfast on Mondays until dinner on Friday:
- No Alcohol
- No Red Meat
- No Fried Foods
- No Soda
- No Coffee (optional)
The coffee is optional because I recognize that some people are dependent on it to do their jobs. For many it would be too hard to kick cold turkey. Besides the idea of this is to not cheat yourself of the things you love. Some people really enjoy their morning coffee. I already don’t drink coffee regularly so it’s no big deal for me. If you want to give it up, we support and applaud you. Those who don’t, we won’t judge.
My goal is to generally start living healthier in general without completely sacrificing the things I love. I imagine the benefits will be potential weight loss and increased energy. You are welcome to join in for just one week or the whole month. You’re welcome to take this as an opportunity to give up other things as well if you see fit. If you think it’s time to quit smoking, we’ll get your back and cheer you on.
Who’s with me?
Men, if you are interested tweet out this article with the hashtag #ManCleanse, encourage your friends to join in and connect with and cheer on other men taking the challenge.
Women, while our goal is to promote healthier eating for men, you’re welcome to join in as well! Your support is also welcomed to encourage and cheer on the men in your life to eat healthier.
If you are already a vegan or paleo dieter, props to you for your healthy eating choices. That said, you are still welcome to join in as well on the applicable parts of the #ManCleanse if you’d like. Just because we’ll be having a big burger and fries on Friday nights doesn’t mean you have to!