Why I've Given Up With Diets And Trying To Eat Clean?

Long time ago I've given up making diets. Because I have noticed that all the diets never really helped me. At the same time I have found out that clean eating is actually much better. Because it’s more healthy, tasty and the good thing is that clean eating has a simple and effective way to lose slowly some weight and boost the overall health. That's why I stick to a more healthy and clean eating life.

What is clean eating?

The most important clean eating isn't a diet. It’s a healthy way of eating that can be followed for life.

Just focus on consuming whole foods that are minimally processed and as close to their natural form as possible. Less processed, store-bought items and preparing more meals at home, has also a positive side-effect, which is saving money.

If your are interested in clean eating and you wold like to give it a try, here are 11 clean eating tips that can help you being healthier and more energized.

1. Cut out Added Sugar

Eating too much added sugar has been linked to a wide array of health issues. Just use healthy substitutes for your favorite sweet treats. It can satisfy cravings and keep you on track.

For example, swap your nightly bowl of ice cream for a clean treat like Greek yogurt topped with berries, unsweetened coconut and cinnamon.

2. Bring out Your Inner Chef

Making a habit of buying meals and snacks on the run can lead to unhealthy choices and behaviors.

I know it so well, when I work in productions quick and unhealthy foods gets me through busy days.

Although it’s not practical for everyone to cook all meals at home, I started to prepare fresh, healthy food as much is possible.

When you do clean eating, knowing what’s in your food is important and cooking for yourself is the easiest way to control what goes in and what stays out of your body.

3. Support Your Local Farmers

Clean eating revolves around knowing your food and where it comes from. 

There is no better way to honor this principle than to form a relationship with local farmers who grow or raise the food that you eat. 

Purchasing food directly from small farms means that you can be informed about the methods used to grow produce and raise animals for meat, poultry, eggs and dairy.

Plus, buying food directly from local farms means that you are guaranteed to enjoy the freshest in-season food available.

4. Stop Eating “Diet” Foods

When trying to lose weight, many people reach for “diet” foods like low-fat dressings, diet soda, meal replacement bars and weight-loss drinks. 

These foods can be loaded with artificial sweeteners, preservatives and added sugar.

When following a clean eating program, choose whole, non-diet foods like unsweetened, full-fat yogurt and natural peanut butter with no added sugar.

5. Go for the Green

Leafy green vegetables like spinach, kale and arugula are easy and nutritious ingredients that can be added to almost any meal.

Adding a mixed green salad to your meal, incorporating sautéed spinach into an omelet or tossing fresh kale into your favorite smoothie are easy ways to eat more healthy produce. 

Greens are packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that help your body thrive. 

6. Choose Nutrient-Dense Foods

Foods that are considered “nutrient-dense” contain an impressive amount of nutrients but are relatively low in calories. They’re perfect for those looking to shed pounds.

Nutrient-dense foods include broccoli, berries, eggs, red bell peppers, seeds, wild-caught salmon and sweet potatoes.

On the other hand, foods that are considered nutrient-poor, like candy and fast food, are packed with calories yet contain few nutrients.

Choosing meals and snacks that are loaded with nutrient-dense ingredients is a smart and delicious way to get healthier.

7. Meal Prep for Success

Meal prep for the week ahead ensures that you will have fresh, healthy options every day. It also keeps you from making poor food choices out of desperation.

For example, knowing that you have a delicious meal already prepared and waiting for you in your refrigerator can deter you from stopping at a fast food restaurant for a quick bite. 

8. Eat Whole Foods

Eating mostly whole foods in their least processed form is a great way to eat clean.

A smart way to make the transition to a whole-foods diet is to focus on one meal at a time.

For example, if you’re used to eating a sugary oat cereal for breakfast every morning, switch to a bowl of rolled oats topped with fresh berries and natural nut butter.

Start transitioning out meals and snacks that contain processed ingredients and replace them with whole foods like vegetables, fruits, nuts, healthy fats and proteins.

9. Follow a Plant-Based Diet

One of the best ways to make your eating healthier and cleaner is to eat more plant-based meals.

Vegetables can be added to almost every meal or snack, upping the nutritional content and taking the place of less healthy items on your plate.

Start by eating at least one plant-based meal per day, whether that be breakfast, lunch or dinner.

10. Focus on Ingredients, Not Calories

Although cutting out energy-dense, unhealthy items is crucial to weight loss, it’s more important to pay attention to food quality and ingredients than calories.

For example, although avocados and nuts are high in calories, they are packed with nutrients like fiber and healthy fats that can promote weight loss by keeping you satisfied between meals.

11. Purchase Local and Organic Products 

Incorporating organic, local foods into your eating habits can boost the nutritional value and decrease your intake of contaminants like herbicides and pesticides.

Purchasing local, organic food isn't only good for your health — it also benefits the planet by promoting biodiversity and reducing environmental contaminants.

Try incorporating a few of these tips every week. Before you know it, you will be living a healthier, happier lifestyle.

Have a good and healthy start into a new week,

Katy

Analog shot by Daniell Bohnhof Photography

Styling by me Look2 Ocean