Eating clean (which is a pretty broad term) isn’t necessarily as healthy as some people think.
I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve heard someone bemoan that they’re eating clean, or only healthy foods, but can’t lose weight. That’s because the total amount you eat still matters above everything when looking at fat loss.
If you switch from a diet containing highly processed, hyper palatable (aka super tasty) foods, removing those items is likely to reduce your calorie intake. Creating that calorie deficit is our overriding principle. In this instance ‘clean eating’ just becomes a method to achieve it. But there is nothing magical about it.
It’s not all bad though. Increasing the fruit, vegetables and whole grains within your diet has so many health benefits and I’d always encourage it. Adding more of these, and reducing the amount of processed foods is generally positive. It just doesn’t (and shouldn’t) be an all or nothing approach.
I’ve spoken about it before but rigid dieting and strict food rules should be avoided for most people. They can lead to obsessing over food, lower body satisfaction and disordered eating. In turn flexible approaches lead to more weight loss, lower anxiety and less overeating.
Make some healthier swaps in your diet. Eat more plants. But if you want some chocolate or cake then there is room for that too and food isn’t just nutrients and calories so always make space for what you enjoy.
References: Mac Nutrition Uni, Stewart et al 2002, Schaumberg et al 2016, Westenhoefer et al 2013, Smith et al 1999, Westenhoefer et al 1999
(Reposted from Instagram)
