“Clean eating" has become a popular term in our culture. However, the term often encompasses several processed and packaged foods, including different types of meat substitutes or cleansing drinks. True clean eating embraces organic, wholesome foods in an attempt to eliminate one’s exposure to artificial chemicals, colors, and preservatives. It involves consuming antioxidants that will aid our bodies, as well as other foods that will actually supply what the body needs to run smoothly.
As a vegetarian, one can still easily adopt an “unclean” and imbalanced diet composed of highly processed pastas, white rice, and white bread. Unfortunately, many pre-packaged vegetables, like canned beans, also contain unhealthy levels of sodium (salt), high fructose corn syrup (sugar), and fats (hydrogenated fat).
Additionally, we often do not consume the necessary or recommended amounts of fruits and vegetables to supplement our diet. For instance, 2-4 cups of leafy greens or cruciferous vegetables per day is ideal. These forms of vegetables have an unsurpassed ability to aid the liver in detoxification, which helps prevent certain cancers, coronary artery disease, and other chronic disorders.
Eating clean in its truest form means partaking of the highest quality food with the capacity of optimal cleansing, healing, and nutrition. The benefits of this diet are endless: a healthier metabolism, mental clarity, and an advanced immune system.
Have you ever kept a food journal? Try keeping a food diary for one week and become more intentional in cleaning your body!