Clean eating: What does that mean? (2024)

FAQs

What is the meaning of clean eating? ›

There are a lot of variations to clean eating; but, basically, it refers to eating foods that are as close as possible to their natural state. This encourages us to make our meals from scratch to make them as “clean” as possible.

the practice of eating only foods that are regarded as healthy, especially fresh food that has not been processed (= given any industrial or chemical treatment)

Eggs are a great choice—and don't skip the yolk, or you'll miss out on extra protein and nutrients not found in the egg whites. Nuts, seeds and beans are all fantastic choices for plant-based proteins. Just be sure to look for lower-sodium options when possible.

Eat your veggies — any veggies

Fresh and plain frozen vegetables are obvious good choices, as well as reduced-sodium canned. Since potatoes (and yes French fries) count as a vegetable, you're best off with baked, boiled, or oven-roasted at home, versus highly processed versions fried in refined oils.

Although the idea behind clean eating is based on whole, fresh foods, certain types of packaged foods can be included, such as packaged vegetables, nuts, and meat. However, it's important to read labels to make sure there aren't any preservatives, added sugars, or unhealthy fats.

Some things that are likely to be found on the table of clean food eaters are: Whole-grains instead of refined flour, as in bread, cookies, cakes, and pies. Brown rice instead of white rice, which has been milled till it has lost its husk, with the underlying germ and vitamins.

Likewise, many whole grains qualify for a clean eating food list even though they may be somewhat processed. For example, whole rolled oats are a clean food, but the very outer coating of the oat, as you'd find with oat groats, has been removed.

Start by focusing on whole, unprocessed foods: Choose lean proteins such as chicken, fish, eggs, and beans. Whole grains like brown rice, oatmeal, quinoa, whole wheat, fresh vegetables and fruits, bio-quality dairy products, healthy fats such as nuts, seeds, olive oil, avocados, and herbs and spices for flavoring.

As you can see nutrition info from myfitnesspal.com while both air and oil popped corn are considered clean, there is a clear benefitting to choosing air popped corn if you are looking to cut calories and fat.

Is peanut butter considered clean eating? ›

Generally speaking, peanut butter is good for you when consumed in moderation and as part of a balanced, nutritious diet. "Peanut butter is mostly known for its healthy fats and protein ... two nutrients that help keep you full," says Natalie Rizzo, registered dietitian and nutrition editor for TODAY.com.

Cheese is allowed in the clean eating meal plan, but with an asterisk. Processed cheese slices or other packaged foods that contain cheese should be avoided.

“People think hunger and fullness are only felt in the stomach,” Dr. Albers says. “But in fact, hunger can be related to fatigue, difficulty focusing, irritability, anxiety, headaches, shakiness, dizziness and more. On the other hand, feeling focused, calm, able to concentrate and energized can be a sign of fullness.”

The eating-clean lifestyle has some good points. It's a balanced diet that focuses on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, and protein. It also encourages you to control portion sizes. And it doesn't ban any food groups.

If your make air-popped popcorn with little or no added salt and butter, then popcorn is a healthy snack choice, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute.

Some things that are likely to be found on the table of clean food eaters are: Whole-grains instead of refined flour, as in bread, cookies, cakes, and pies.