Maybe you are like me and you have a sweet tooth that needs a fix every day or other day? Or possibly you like the salty chips in all their flavourful deep fried goodness?
At every pitstop on the road, temptation lurks and our taste buds yearn for something to suffice our need. Needs for everyone are different, yet there is something we all crave and when it comes to eating cleaner, and making healthier choices these cravings can sabotage our good intentions.
Over the years of having this website, I have looked at food in many different ways, and as much as being on a train is a journey, so is eating. For instance, what was healthy for me a decade ago, is now different.
Take my ability to eat gluten, without questioning my stomach upset issues for years and finally then finding a specialist who saw I had an autoimmune issue with the substance. Now, I am gluten free, red bumps on my upper arms free, and my tummy is happy and functional. We change, we grow, we shrink, we are in this ever evolving world and food is a daily dance we perform to nourish our bodies, or in some cases punish our bodies, knowingly, or unknowingly. I didn’t know why stomach was so reactive, but now I avoid gluten with a ten food poll and the toilets too., haha. Honesty, my new purpose for this blog. No silver linings.
So what of Eating Healthy and why is it so darn hard?
Navigating the modern food environment can feel like a minefield, especially when clean eating is the goal. The overwhelming abundance of convenient, highly processed foods makes it tough to opt for whole, unprocessed options. These processed foods are meticulously engineered to be hyper-palatable and can be quite addictive, luring us away from healthier choices. Adding to the challenge is the influence of aggressive marketing strategies that promote junk food and sugary beverages at every turn, overshadowing the healthier options and making it even more difficult for individuals to stick to clean eating habits.
It’s also incredibly challenging to stay on the healthier food path when out with friends and family. If you are like me with a sweet tooth, going to social gatherings with dessert available is a real challenge…
Navigating the social and cultural factors of clean eating can be tricky. Social pressure often plays a significant role, as many social gatherings revolve around food and drink that may not align with clean eating principles, potentially isolating individuals who strive to make healthier choices. Additionally, cultural norms and traditions, rich with specific foods and culinary practices, might not always fit neatly within the guidelines of clean eating. This can create a sense of disconnection from one’s heritage, making it challenging for individuals to adhere to such diets without feeling like they’re losing a part of their cultural identity.
Then there are the issues of even getting Healthy food items. I remember reading about food desserts where locals could only access fast food places and no real food markets without considerable travel times. One woman with a car, would have to take numerous buses just to get fresh fruits and vegetables.
This brings me to my next point, accessibility and affordability are significant hurdles in the quest for clean eating. The cost of fresh, organic produce and high-quality meats can be prohibitive, often making processed foods the more budget-friendly option. This financial barrier makes clean eating less accessible to those on tight budgets. Additionally, the existence of food deserts—areas where access to fresh, whole foods is severely limited, particularly in urban or rural low-income neighborhoods—makes it nearly impossible for residents to consistently find and purchase nutritious options. These factors collectively create substantial challenges for individuals striving to maintain a clean eating lifestyle.
And what about when life has its hiccups, or even major social stressors that play negatively on our minds.. I won’t add in what we all just went though, but the psychological and emotional challenges play a significant role in the difficulty of clean eating.
Many people turn to processed and sugary foods for comfort during times of stress or emotional distress, which can easily derail efforts to maintain a clean diet. Additionally, breaking long-established eating habits can be incredibly challenging, as food preferences and routines are deeply ingrained from a young age. These habitual patterns can make it tough to transition to healthier eating practices, creating an ongoing battle against both emotional cravings and long-standing dietary routines.
You know, I’ve been really trying to eat clean, but it’s so hard. Everywhere I look, there are these convenient, highly processed foods. They’re everywhere—in the grocery stores, at work, even at social gatherings. They’re designed to taste so good that it’s almost impossible to resist them. And it’s not just the taste; these foods are actually engineered to be addictive. It’s like the food industry is working against me.
So, what does eating clean really mean to me?
It means trying to eat foods in their most natural state—fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. It means avoiding foods that are heavily processed or full of artificial ingredients. I focus on nutrient-rich choices, making sure I’m getting the vitamins and minerals my body needs without the empty calories.
What else, I’m also trying to be mindful of where my food comes from. I choose sustainably farmed or caught foods and support local, organic, or eco-friendly options when I can. It’s important to me that my food choices are ethical and sustainable.
Mindful eating is a big part of it too. I try to be aware of what I’m eating, how much I’m eating, and how it affects my body and mind. I listen to my hunger and satiety cues instead of eating out of habit or for emotional reasons.
It is also important to know clean eating looks different for everyone.
It’s about what works for me and my body. I allow myself some flexibility and don’t beat myself up if I indulge every now and then. It’s a journey, not a destination. I focus on making better choices most of the time, knowing that it’s okay to enjoy a treat sometimes.
Having a community for support makes a big difference too. Making my own group on Facebook for Eat Clean Sharing, and joining other groups focused on clean eating gives me a sense of belonging and provides resources and encouragement. Continuous education and experimentation with different foods and recipes keep things interesting and sustainable.
In the end, understanding these challenges and adopting a flexible, personalized approach helps me navigate the complexities of clean eating and make lasting, healthful changes. It’s not easy, but I’m learning and growing along the way.
**Crystal Knutson** is the passionate founder of the **Eat Clean Sharing Community**, a dynamic digital space where people come together to stay accountable and eat healthier! A decade ago, Crystal launched this community as a way to make more informed food choices and realized that education sparks a deeper responsibility for what we eat.
With food reviews, mouthwatering healthy recipes, and fun challenges, Crystal has transformed the website into a lively personal health journal that inspires everyone. As a member, you’ll dive into exciting discussions, share your own journey, and connect with others who are just as pumped about clean eating. Join the **Eat Clean Sharing Community** and let’s make healthy eating an adventure, together!
My love for writing shines through in the health-related articles I craft, each designed to be both useful and informative. I delve into the latest trends, tips, and research to provide you with valuable insights into the world of clean eating.
I also enjoy conducting interviews with industry experts and innovators who have impactful messages, products, or services to share. Through these conversations, I aim to highlight the incredible work being done to promote healthier lifestyles and provide inspiration for our community.
Join me on this journey towards better health and well-being, one clean meal at a time.