I’m turning 30 next month, and I was fully prepared for 30 to come and go with little fanfare. I know some people set specific goals for themselves to accomplish by a certain age but I’ve never really felt compelled to do that. The notion of wanting to accomplish something by 30 feels like arbitrary pressure, and I’m proud of all that I’ve accomplished in my 20s. But last month I started thinking about attempting to do the Whole 30, and I realized that accomplishing it before I turn 30 would actually signify a major victory over the bad food habits I’ve established throughout my younger years.

The Whole 30 is a restrictive food program that eliminates added sugar, dairy, grains, and legumes from your diet with the goal of improving your overall health and relationship to food. Before you judge me for jumping on the trendy diet train, hear me out because I have my reasons. I have struggled with my relationship with food for most of my life. I use food as something to look forward to, I have very little self control when it comes to portions, and I am a totally impulsive eater. I do not eat nutritious foods and primarily look to carbs and dairy when I’m hungry. I’m have a crazy sweet tooth and am basically addicted to sugar and cheese. The most obvious reminder of this is the 15 lbs I’m carrying around as a result, but I know that my energy level, mood, skin, and digestion are all affected by my relationship with food. This is less about body image and more about getting myself together. I feel like food has control over me and not the other way around, and I’m sick of being the victim in that relationship.

I’ve also struggled for many years with chronic digestive issues. I’ll spare you the details, but I can honestly say that it has been affecting my quality of life since I was quite young. It has prompted me to avoid eating anything in the morning, to get anxious on long trips, to get anxious going anywhere with someone I don’t know very well, and it’s caused me to leave social gatherings if I’m feeling uncomfortable. I’ve also had issues with my skin, especially my scalp, and I strongly suspect those issues are related to the problems with my digestion.

Honestly, I’m really intimidated by the idea of taking on this challenge but this is something I really want to accomplish so that I step into my 30s on a healthier foot. I’m planning to do lots of meal prep to set myself up for success. I’ve also been gathering recipes on Pinterest so that I don’t spend too much time searching for recipes or feeling overwhelmed when I have a craving. Here are just a few of the recipes I anticipate will be in heavy rotation over the next 30 days:

Pulled Tandori Chicken – The only way I’m going to rid myself of my habit of reaching for carbs and dairy for every meal is by cooking super flavorful food, and this indian dish from The Big Man’s World is something I look forward to trying.

Walnut Crusted Lemon Chicken Piccata – This recipe from Wholesomelicious has a few non-Whole 30 compliant ingredients that are easy to replace. Chicken is so easy to stock up on and cook on weeknights, but the same grilled chicken can get boring, so this will be a nice way to add a little variety to it.

Cocunut Lime Chicken – We actually tried this recipe from A Saucy Kitchen last week and it was awesome. We had it over zoodles and I also look forward to trying it with cauliflower rice.

Salmon Balls – These salmon balls by Primally Inspired look easy and fun. I think they’ll make a good lunch option for work or for busy weekends.