Clean eating… We all hear about it, but what does it really mean? Nutrition Expert Rachael Hartley shares her thoughts on why the term can have more harm than good, and her 5 tips on how to ‘eat clean’ without feeling crazy around food!
The concerns around clean eating is that it’s become just another diet, and along with that, come the physical and mental consequences of dieting – weight fluctuations/ regain, low self esteem, stress, chronic disease, fatigue, anxiety…the list goes on. So how do we remain kind to yourself, physically and mentally?
1. Stop calling it clean eating. Just stop.
2. Aim to eat mostly whole, unprocessed foods. They taste great, nourish your body, and will make you feel amazing.
3. Look for a short, pronounceable ingredients list, but don’t freak out over it. If you’re eating mostly whole foods, a little bit of preservative or emulsifier won’t be the death of you.
4. Organic food is great for the environment and limits your exposure to pesticides and herbicides known to harm health when consumed in excess. You know what else limits your exposure to pesticides and herbicides? Eating mostly whole food and mostly plants. Don’t worry if you can’t find/afford all organic.
5. I don’t care what’s in it, a double-stuffed Oreo is freaking delicious.
Rachael Hartley, RD, LD, CDE is a private practice dietitian, food enthusiast, and nutrition expert based in Columbia, SC. By guiding others to rediscover the joy of nourishment rather than deprivation, Rachael helps men and women alike improve their health and well-being through delicious whole food recipes and practical advice.
For the full article and more health tips that help your mind and body feel wonderful, visit Rachael at Avocado A Day Nutrition!