How to Start Eating Clean

Switching to a cleaner eating routine isn’t about jumping on a fad diet. Instead, it’s about creating a healthier lifestyle that focuses on paying attention to what you put in your body and learning about your relationship with food. It can sound daunting, but transitioning to clean eating doesn’t have to be overly complicated.

Carey Stites, Registered Dietitian at Seton Medical Center Harker Heights, has some times on how you can make the move to a clean eating lifestyle.

Do It Yourself

It is significantly easier to control what you eat when you are eating meals you have prepared. Make meals a breeze by meal prepping. If you have your meals and snacks already prepared you’ll be less likely to reach for those unhealthier options.

Dietitian Pro Tip: Pick one day and prep your meals and snack for the whole week. Add protein to a snack to feel fuller, longer. Great sources of protein include almonds, cheese and hard boiled eggs.

Stock Smart

If items like cookies, chips and bagels aren’t in your pantry, you cant eat them. Stock up on fresh vegetables, fruits and lean proteins while grocery shopping.

Dietitian Pro Tip: Sneak in vegetables at lunch, in soups, as appetizers and with dinner to increase fiber intake. Consume them raw or cooked, or even mixed into entrees. Vegetables cooked for the least amount of time, at the minimum temperature and with the minimum amount of water, retain their nutrients.

Keep Moving

In addition to a cleaner plate, start a fitness routine. Exercising 30 minutes a day will greatly benefit your overall health. You can improve your sleep, mood and heart health. Start a new class, join a gym that has a variety of options or sign up for a race to keep yourself motivated.

Set Goals

You do not have to change your whole life overnight. Set goals that have set end dates and are specific. For example, set a goal to only drink one soda a week for the next month. You do not have to make yourself miserable by dropping all your habits. Find substitutions and always be realistic with your goals. 

It’s a great idea to consult your physician or a dietitian before making any changes to your eating routine. He/She can answer any questions you may have and make sure you are focused on eating a balanced diet. Call 254-618-1040 to get an appointment with Carey Stites.