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Are there any downsides to following a clean eating diet?

Juliette Meriton

As an expert in the field of nutrition, I can say that following a clean eating diet certainly has benefits for overall health and well-being. However, there are also potential downsides that need to be taken into consideration.

One of the main downsides of a clean eating diet is the potential for nutrient deficiencies. By eliminating certain food groups or specific foods, such as dairy or grains, followers of a clean eating diet may not be getting enough key nutrients such as calcium or carbohydrates. This can lead to deficiencies and negatively impact overall health.

Another downside of a clean eating diet is the potential for food obsession or orthorexia. Clean eating can sometimes border on an unhealthy obsession with food, leading to anxiety and stress around what foods to eat and a fear of "cheat meals" or any foods deemed "unclean." This can have negative effects on mental health and overall quality of life.

In addition, a clean eating diet can be more expensive and require more time and effort for meal planning and preparation. Buying organic or specialty products can add up quickly and requires more time to seek out and prepare meals. This can be challenging for those on a tight budget or with a busy lifestyle.

Lastly, a clean eating diet can also lead to social isolation or difficulties with social events that involve food. Eating out or attending parties can be challenging when one is limited to specific clean eating guidelines, and can cause social anxiety and a lack of enjoyment in these situations.

Overall, it is important to weigh the potential benefits and downsides of any diet, including a clean eating diet. While there are certainly benefits to clean eating, it is important to approach it with caution and consider potential downsides. Seeking guidance from a registered dietitian can be helpful in ensuring that nutrient needs are being met and a balanced approach to eating is being maintained.