How To Start Eating Clean

01 Jul How To Start Eating Clean

By Alicia Slusarek, guest blogger

The best compliment to the spring and summer bounty is clean eating. As you head to the farmers’ markets, enjoy your favorite whole foods and ditch the processed stuff.

What is Clean Eating?
Eating clean isn’t a diet, it’s a lifestyle. It’s all about choosing wholesome foods over processed options. This sounds simple, but might require some lifestyle changes for those who rely on the taste and convenience of ready-prepared, packaged, or processed foods. If you do, don’t fret! With the right direction, you’ll be sure to discover the rich taste and long-lasting benefits of choosing whole foods are worth the effort.

Shop Clean
The next time you go to the market, fill up your cart with foods that are closest to their original state. This is easiest in the produce section where processed foods are minimal.  Many markets now offer produce from nearby farmers and vendors, which makes it easier than ever to make better choices. As you move to other sections of the market, take a minute to look at food labels before tossing food products in your cart. The best options have a shorter list ingredients that you’re familiar with and can pronounce. Lastly, look for “100% whole grains” on any bread or cereal varieties. The term “whole” means that the grain is kept closest to its natural state.

Sustainably Clean
Clean eaters are interested in what they’re eating in addition to where it comes from. They strive to purchase food that is sustainably grown and locally sourced. This clean practice benefits your local environment and economy while providing you with nutritious, newly-picked food. Making trips to farmers’ markets, investing in a community sustainable agriculture (CSA) program, or growing food yourself are the best ways to make sustainable strides. Eating healthier and engaging in your community might be even more fulfilling than you thought!

Get Clean!
You do not need to be a world-class chef to get clean in the kitchen. A great way to start is to set small, achievable goals that support a clean eating habit or routine. Keep in mind that the goal is to cook and eat more whole foods at meal times. Here are some clean eating recipes to get you started.

Tropical Smoothie by Jamila Rene, the No Nonsense Nutritionist (pictured above)

Vegan Eggplant Pizzas by Heather Caplan, Dietitian on the Run

Grilled Veggie Skewers by Toby Amidor

Israeli-Style Salad by Toby Amidor

Cauliflower Burnt Rice by Jessica Levinson of Nutritioulicious

Healthy Berry Cake by Layne Lieberman, The World RD

Alicia Slusarek finds joy in sharing and spreading her enthusiasm for wholesome nutrition through cooking and writing. She is excited and determined to continue living her passion and has just completed her dietetic internship at Cedar Crest College in Allentown, PA and is on her way to become a registered dietitian.