Many of us know to wash our hands before eating or to wash off our produce before consuming it. While these behaviors exemplify “clean eating,” there is more to this concept. Clean eating also refers to a 1960’s dietary approach that has been revived by fitness model, Tosca Reno, who has struggled with her weight. This approach focuses on consuming fresh, whole foods that are unprocessed and as close to their natural states as possible. This means refined, nutrient-poor foods, such as white flour and beverages, like sugar-sweetened drinks should be reduced with the ultimate goal of eliminating them from the diet. The bulk of the diet should consist of nutrient dense, fiber-rich produce, such as kale, broccoli, and apples. Pair fruits and vegetables with complex carbohydrates like sweet potatoes, brown rice, quinoa, and other whole grain starches. Lean meats, poultry, and fish can serve as accents to your meals. By reducing the chemical-laden food and drink from our diet, we decrease the risk of burdening our digestive system, as we are not forcing it to process fare that it does not recognize. Proponents of clean eating emphasize that it truly is a way of life rather than a quick-fix diet. Unlike traditional diets, you do not have to avoid carbohydrates or desserts and eat only carrots and lettuce. A variety of foods are encouraged, so long as they are eaten and/or prepared in a way that does not sacrifice the nutritional integrity. Preferred cooking methods include steaming or baking, which preserve more nutrients than other methods like deep-frying or boiling. Although clean eating is not about deprivation, moderation is key, so enjoy just a slice of pie, knowing that you can have another slice the next day if you choose. Clean eating is synonymous with a healthy body. It provides you with energy, a strong immune system, and allows you to look and feel your best. There is no magic behind clean eating. Its principles are simple—stick with what nature has to offer, which is plenty. We have become accustomed to manmade and artificial flavors. Thankfully, our taste buds are flexible and can be trained to appreciate foods without all the dyes and fillers. So go ahead and swap your lunchable for a lunch you’re able to digest!
3 Comments
Alicia
8/23/2012 12:16:19 pm
I enjoyed this article. I was not familiar with the clean eating movement, but feel that it is something to which I could easily adapt. I especially like the idea of eating what I like, but in moderation. We have to eat what we like, but I like many others, need to reduce portions.
Reply
Alena
8/28/2012 11:26:53 am
Exactly! Moderation, not deprivation, is the key to sticking with healthy living!
Reply
Taria
8/27/2012 12:28:16 pm
Well said! It's really nice to know that the way u cook your food has an affect on the nutrients in them :) can't wait to hear more!
Reply
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorHello there, my name is Alena and I am a Registered Dietitian! This blog is a platform through which I can share my knowledge and perspectives on a variety of nutrition-related topics. Feel free to contribute by commenting. Archives
November 2021
|