health: Eat clean and get lean

Clean eating focuses on consuming fresh, whole foods that are unprocessed and as close to their natural state as possible. Clean eating is centered on reducing the chemical-laden food and drink from our diet as a means of decreasing the burden our digestive system by not forcing it to process fare that it does not recognize.

Refined, nutrient-poor foods, such as white flour and beverages like sugar-sweetened drinks, should be reduced, with the ultimate goal of eliminating them from the diet. The bulk of the diet should consist of nutrient dense, fiber-rich produce, such as kale, broccoli and apples. Pair fruits and vegetables with complex carbohydrates like sweet potatoes, brown rice, quinoa, and other whole grain starches. Lean meats, poultry, and fish can serve as accents to your meals.

Proponents of clean eating emphasize that it truly is a way of life rather than a quick-fix diet. Unlike highly restrictive diets, clean eating encourages a variety of foods, so long as they are eaten and/or prepared in a way that does not sacrifice the nutritional integrity.

Preferred cooking methods include steaming or baking, which preserve more nutrients than other methods like deep-frying or boiling. Although clean eating is not about deprivation, moderation is key, so enjoy just a slice of pie, knowing that you can have another slice the next day if you choose.

Clean eating is synonymous with a healthy body. It provides you with energy, a strong immune system, and allows you to feel your best. There is no magic behind clean eating. Its principles are simple — stick with what nature has to offer, which is plenty.

We have become accustomed to manmade and artificial flavors. Thankfully, our taste buds are flexible and can be trained to appreciate foods without all the dyes and fillers. So go ahead and swap your lunchable for a lunch you’re able to digest!