Photo by Katharos, Pixaby
By Elizabeth Meyer, registered dietician
So many diet fads, food trends, crazy eating ideas — generally, they all drive me crazy. Most aren’t realistic to follow long term or with a family, some might be expensive, some might just be unhealthy, and some sound too good to be true (FYI – that’s generally a red flag that it really IS too good to be true). Don’t fall for it!
Clean eating is somewhat of a “fad diet” I can get onboard with, if I’m picking the guidelines. The fewer rules and the more choices we get, the more I like it. No one is going to stick to something that’s hard to follow or unenjoyable – especially when it comes to what we’re eating. Let’s be real, no one is excited to be on a “diet” so look at it as a lifestyle change. I’m certainly not looking to make anyone miserable.
It’s a great way to include the foods we should be focusing on. Are we going to do it all the time? I can assure you I’m not going to. (I love Diet Dew, chips and salsa and Peanut Butter M&Ms — once I figure out how to classify these as “clean” there will be a blog following). But I try to eat good foods most of the time. I feel better and at the end of the day my pants still fit!
Here is what I’m on board with:
• More/unlimited fruits and veggies – much easier to do in the summer months, utilize those gardens!
• Fresh, whole foods – usually less processing means better for us
• Including healthier fats (avocadoes, canola oil/olive oil, nuts)
• Lean proteins – I’m not going to force anyone to avoid meat
• More whole grains! #fiberisourfriend
• If you are following these rules you’ll naturally be cutting back on sodium, which is another win
• Limiting added sugar – tastes so good, unfortunately it doesn’t offer health benefits and we eat way too much added sugar (this doesn’t count your fruit or milk)
• It’s better for the environment #savetheplanet
Things we can skip
• Organic fruits and veggies – I never buy these (unless they’re cheaper than the ‘regular ones’) we struggle eating enough at all, I’m not about to put limitations on these. I’ll support frozen and canned as well.
• Avoiding processed foods. It’s not realistic in my world, if it is for you – go for it!
• Following the rules 100% of the time. That’s not any fun. But again, if you are, I support you! I just can’t join you (see previous comments on Peanut Butter M&Ms).
A modified, less restricted version of clean eating is doable, I think we can agree on that. Start one meal at a time, or a day at a time. Try making veggies the star of the meal once a week; grab a new whole grain you’ve been meaning to try; cook more at home instead of grabbing something quick on the run. Plan ahead. Clean eating doesn’t have to feel like a punishment. Give it a chance. Set a good example for your kids, make it fun, include them. You might even decide you like it!