Bite Size Science: a quick analysis of ‘clean eating’ diets

Clean eating does NOT mean healthy eating.

Don’t believe me? Think about french fries. Those delicious, salty, definitely-not-the-best-for-you treats are technically a “clean” eat.

How is that possible? It’s simple.

While there is no hard set definition for clean eating, it generally means avoiding processed foods, preservatives, and other additives in favor of whole, natural ingredients. Because they’re just made from potatoes, salt, and vegetable oils, 🍟 make the cut.

Not all “un-clean” foods are bad for your health and not all “clean” foods are good for you either.

Beyond the french fries example, let’s look at milk. You can add Vitamin D to milk to enhance your bones which makes it technically not a whole, natural food. In this case, a food additive positively contributes to your overall health instead of negatively affecting it.

On a mental level, labeling some foods as “bad” or “clean” is a negative way to look at food. This could lead to poor relationships with food which in turn could lead to nutrient deficiencies, binge eating due to a sense of restriction, and a general feeling of unhappiness.

So eat some 🍟 sometimes if you want to — or don’t. When figuring out the best healthy diet for you, think about nutrient density and creating an overall balanced diet.