Understanding Clean Eating and Its Mental Health Risks

What Is Clean Eating?
Clean eating can mean many different things. Many define it as consuming whole foods or minimally processed foods, focusing on plant-based options and limiting ultra-processed foods. Nutrition advisor Abby Langer notes that clean eating often disregards moderation in alcohol consumption.
Is Clean Eating Healthy?
It can be beneficial. Foods branded as “clean” like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are rich in nutrients. Piling your plate with produce is a great strategy, yet a fixation on clean eating can lead to detrimental mental states such as orthorexia.
The Risks of Clean Eating
- Emotional impact
- Perfectionism in diet
- Identity tied to food choices
Discouraging morality-based labels can aid in separating self-worth from dietary choices. Balancing a healthy relationship with food is essential for positive mental health.
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