9 ways to easily switch to clean eating habits

Clean eating is not just a way to change the food menu, but a reason to imbibe a healthy change in your eating habits. Read on to know how just by following 9 easy tricks you can easily switch to clean eating!

Clean eating includes choosing and consuming foods that are closest to their natural forms. So, food products that are boxed, packaged, and bagged are off limits and the ones which are fresh and whole should be the preferred options. Here are 9 ways in which you can practice clean eating.

Eat fresh. The basic idea of clean eating is to completely avoid processed food items such as ready-to-eat meals, cookies, chips, etc. and thus consume fewer calories, salt, sugar, and saturated fats.

Eat whole grains. Switch refined carbs with whole grains. So, cut down on white bread, rice, and pasta as these food products tend to lose nutrients while getting processed. Instead, choose whole wheat pasta and bread, brown and wild rice, oatmeal, barley, bulgur, and popcorn. There are also studies that associate whole grains with low risk of heart problems, colon cancer, and type 2 diabetes.

Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables are the backbones of clean eating. While some people recommend sticking to fresh sources only, others may let you divulge in frozen and canned options too, as these have just as many nutrients. However, read the food label thoroughly before picking the canned and frozen options as they may contain extra salt or sugar. Consume at least 5 or more servings of fruits and vegetables each day.

Be cautious of the salt and added sugar intake. Clean eating includes consuming foods that are naturally low in sugar and salt. Some foods that are perceived to be healthy such as yogurt and tomato sauce may also contain added sweeteners and salt. So, read the food labels and flavor your meals with herbs and spices instead of sugar and salt.

No artificial ingredients. Food containing preservatives, sweeteners, artificial colors, and other commercial ingredients should be completely avoided.

Ample water intake. Sip on calorie free plain water instead of aerated drinks and juices. Herbal tea is another beverage option that can infuse positivity in your body.

Restrict caffeine and alcohol. Avoid consuming more than 400mg of caffeine (or 3 8-ounce cups of coffee) and two servings of alcohol for men and one for women, if at all. Ideally, you must stay clear off this and opt for light tea or coffee only.

Go organic. Shop for organic produce or go to the farmer’s market to get artificial pesticide free food products.

Choose meat and dairy wisely. Most clean eaters avoid dairy and meat because of the use of growth hormones and antibiotics in these products. You can pick organic food source and sea food, which are low in mercury if you wish to eat these food groups.