The concept of clean eating goes way back, at least 30 years, and began with bodybuilders, weight trainers and fitness enthusiasts, but there really was no “name” ascribed to this style of eating other than “fueling the body with the right foods.” Over the past couple of years, however, this way of eating has not only been given a name, but has become very popular due to Tosca Reno, author of the The Eat-Clean Diet
What is clean eating?
Basically, clean eating is eating the most nutritious, healthiest foods possible while minimizing or completely eliminating junk (processed) food from your diet. Clean eating involves consuming food in it’s most natural form (think whole foods). There are varying “degrees” of eating clean. There are those who eat clean 100% of the time; those who have a “cheat” meal or a cheat weekend in which processed foods are on the menu; and those who are transitioning from eating processed foods to eating healthier, more nutritious foods.
Clean eating basics
If you want to clean up your diet and make healthier food choices, you can follow these few basic principles of clean eating:
- Avoid processed foods, especially foods containing white flour and sugar
- Avoid trans fat
- Avoid colas and juices and make water your drink of choice
- Eat mini-meals ((eating every 3 to 4 hours) and practice portion control)
- Consume fresh fruits and vegetables
- Eat lean cuts of meat
- Choose whole grains when it comes to bread and pasta
When talking about clean eating is, it’s important to talk about what clean eating is not: clean eating is not a fad diet or a diet of any type really; it is a lifestyle. Clean eating is much more than a great way to lose weight. Avoiding processed foods and eating a clean diet can boost overall health, increase energy, boost your mood and you may even find your skin glowing.
You may find giving up processed foods a bit difficult at first, but don’t give up! If you need to know how to get started with a clean diet, here’s a few tips: Tips to Get Started Eating Clean
*First published April 6, 2008. Updated January 1, 2012.
