Clean Eating "Rules"

Clean Eating Rules to follow:

1) Eat six small meals a day; breakfast, lunch, dinner and three snacks. Try to eat every few hours to curb hunger and promote a higher metabolism.

2) Choose whole grains and complex carbohydrates to give you more energy and keep you feeling fuller longer. Remember that whole wheat is not necessarily whole grain. Look for breads, rice and pasta that are not just brown, but also made with 100% whole grains. One serving is about the size of your closed fist.

3) Leave calorie-filled, non-nutritional "junk food' at the grocery store. If you buy fresh foods, you will eat fresh foods.

4) Eat as many fruits and vegetables as you want. Try to add one serving, about a handful, of each per meal. Fruits also make great snacks because they are full of natural sugar and can help fight those afternoon sugar cravings.

5) Eat lean meats, chicken and fish whenever possible, staying away from processed and fatty meats. This will give you much needed protein with little fat. One serving is about the size of your palm.

6) Read labels. Look at calorie counts but also look at nutritional value and ingredients. Try to avoid foods with white flour, sugar substitutes, saturated fats and trans-fats.

7) Take small bags of unsalted almonds, cashews and walnuts with you to work so you don't get tempted by vending machines and break room junk food.

8) Check internet sites, libraries and bookstores for recipes to keep your new lifestyle fresh and flavorful.
 - I have a pinterest FULL of clean eating ideas!! Go check it out!

9) Give yourself a "cheat day" but remember not to go overboard. Allow yourself a meal out with friends or a special food, but try not to undo all your hard work from the rest of the week. Enjoy being healthy!

Eating clean means eating healthfully and consuming foods that are as natural as possible, according to "Clean Eating" magazine. Clean goods have no added chemicals or preservatives, are most often organic and contain lower levels of salt, fats, sugar and other additives. Clean foods are fresh fruits and vegetables instead of canned; whole grains instead of processed white flours; water instead of soda; and lean proteins instead of heavier proteins.