Clean eating: The good and the bad

Let’s break down the concept of “clean eating” in simpler terms:

1. What Is Clean Eating?

   • Clean eating is a way of choosing foods that are good for your body. It’s not a strict diet but more of a healthy approach to eating.
   • Instead of processed foods, clean eating focuses on whole, natural foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, nuts, seeds, and high-quality proteins.
   • When you can, go for organic foods and pick what’s in season where you live.
   • If you buy packaged foods, look for shorter ingredient lists and avoid too much added sugar.

2. The Extremes:

   • Some people take clean eating to the extreme. They avoid all added sugars, artificial stuff, and preservatives.
   • But for most of us, that’s a bit too strict. It’s like being part of a food cult!
   • Wellness bloggers and celebs sometimes make big claims about clean eating, but they don’t always have the science to back it up.

3. Gray Areas:

   • Food companies now talk about “clean” food. They say you shouldn’t eat things with long, hard-to-pronounce names.
   • But here’s the truth: Food isn’t just clean or dirty. It’s more complicated.
   • Even organic farming uses some natural pesticides (though most are safe).

4. The Good Side:

   • Some clean eating plans are sensible. They focus on fruits, veggies, beans, and whole grains.
   • Healthy fats and proteins (from plants or animals) are part of it too.

5. The Downsides:

   • Some people take clean eating too far by cutting out whole food groups like grains, soy, and dairy. This isn’t backed by science and can lead to missing out on important nutrients.
   • Being too strict with your diet can turn “clean eating” into a harmful obsession rather than a healthy habit.

    

6. The Reality:

   • Eating lots of whole and less processed foods is good for you, but it’s not necessary to fear other nutritious foods.
   • Some food labels now say “certified clean,” but there’s no real standard for what this means.
   • Even a basic clean eating plan often involves cooking most of your meals, which might not work for everyone’s lifestyle¹.

Remember, it’s about balance—eating well without going overboard! 🌱🍎🥦

Image: lucentius/Getty Images

Reference: health.harvard.edu

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