A Guide to Healthy Food Choices" is a popular phrase and concept in the world of nutrition and healthy eating. It refers to a dietary approach that emphasises consuming whole, minimally processed foods while avoiding or limiting highly processed and unhealthy options. Here's an overview of what "eating clean" typically entails:

Whole Foods: Eating clean involves prioritising whole, unprocessed foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, nuts, and seeds. These foods are often rich in essential nutrients and fibre.

Minimally Processed: Clean eating encourages the consumption of foods that undergo minimal processing. This means avoiding heavily processed foods that contain additives, preservatives, and artificial ingredients.

Limiting Sugar: Reducing or eliminating added sugars is a key component of eating clean. This includes avoiding sugary beverages, candies, and processed foods high in added sugars.

Healthy Fats: Choosing sources of healthy fats, such as avocados, olive oil, nuts, and fatty fish (like salmon), is encouraged while minimising saturated and trans fats found in many processed foods.

Portion Control: Paying attention to portion sizes is essential. Even healthy foods can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess.

Hydration: Staying well-hydrated with water and avoiding sugary drinks like soda and excessive caffeine is an important aspect of clean eating.

Balanced Diet: Clean eating encourages a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods from different food groups to ensure you get a wide range of nutrients.

Read Labels: When purchasing packaged foods, reading labels is crucial to identify hidden additives, sugars, and unhealthy fats.

Cooking at Home: Preparing meals at home allows you to have more control over the ingredients and cooking methods, making it easier to eat clean.

Mindful Eating: Paying attention to hunger and fullness cues and eating mindfully can help prevent overeating and promote a healthier relationship with food.

It's important to note that while eating clean can be a beneficial dietary approach for many people, it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. Individual nutritional needs can vary based on factors such as age, activity level, and specific health conditions. Consulting with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian can provide personalized guidance on incorporating clean eating principles into a balanced and sustainable diet.