Eating Clean in 2024: Protecting Your Health Through Smarter Food Choices

You have heard the expression eating clean, but what is it and how do you do it? Eating clean is more important now, in 2024, than ever before. The foods we eat are often exposed to harmful chemicals like pesticides and heavy metals, which can cause serious health problems. These toxins can damage your neurological system and kidneys, weaken your immune system, mess with your hormones, and even cause cancer.

One particularly harmful group of chemicals is dioxins. Dioxins are part of the “dirty dozen,” a collection of dangerous chemicals classified as persistent organic pollutants (POPs). These pollutants are highly toxic and can remain in the environment for long periods. Studies have shown that dioxins can harm multiple organs and bodily systems, leading to serious health concerns.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “dioxins are highly toxic and can cause reproductive and developmental problems, damage the immune system, interfere with hormones and also cause cancer.” These harmful substances mainly come from polluted water and soil, making it necessary to carefully choose the food we eat.

Who Should Especially Eat Clean?

While everyone can benefit from cleaner eating, some people should be extra careful about avoiding pesticides and heavy metals. These groups include:

• Pregnant women: Harmful chemicals can affect unborn babies and cause developmental problems.
• Children: Kids are more vulnerable because their bodies are still growing and can’t handle toxins as well as adults.
• People with genetic sensitivity: Some people are naturally more sensitive to chemicals like heavy metals and pesticides, putting them at higher risk for health issues such as nerve damage, hormone disruption, or immune system problems.
  • A personalized DNA health report like this one from SelfDecode could provide helpful feedback to your genetic sensitivities.

Eating clean can help these groups—and everyone—stay healthier by avoiding these toxic substances.

How to Eat Clean in 2024

Eating clean doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some easy tips to help you make better food choices this year:

• Choose organic: Organic food is grown without harmful pesticides, so it’s a healthier option. Look for the USDA Organic label when you shop.
• Go non-GMO: Foods that aren’t genetically modified are less likely to contain harmful chemicals. Choose non-GMO verified products whenever possible.
• Pick wild-caught fish: Wild-caught fish is generally safer than farm-raised fish, which may be exposed to chemicals or fed unhealthy food.
• Select clean meats: Look for beef and chicken that are grass-fed or free-range. This means they are raised in a healthier way and not given hormones or antibiotics.
• Read labels carefully: The word “natural” is not regulated and can be misleading. It doesn’t always mean the food is free of chemicals. Always check for labels like “organic” or “non-GMO” to make sure you’re getting the best options.

Tips for Reading Food Labels

Knowing how to read food labels is key to eating clean. Here’s how you can make sense of them:

• Look at the ingredients: Choose products with simple, real ingredients you recognize. Avoid long lists of chemicals and additives.
• Check for certifications: Look for labels that say USDA Organic or Non-GMO Project Verified. These certifications help you know the food is cleaner and safer.

How to Save Money While Eating Clean in 2024

Eating clean doesn’t have to cost a lot. Here are a few ways to keep it budget-friendly:

• Shop at Aldi or Trader Joe’s: Both stores offer a variety of organic and non-GMO options at affordable prices. Aldi has the Simply Nature line. Although, not all Simply Nature products are organic so check for additional labelling that ensures its organic.
• Buy in bulk: Buying organic or non-GMO foods in bulk at places like Costco or Sam’s Club can save you money.
• Walmart: While better known for low prices, Walmart has expanded its offerings to include affordable organic and non-GMO options through their Great Value Organic line, as well as fresh produce, meats, and pantry staples.
• Sprouts Farmers Market: Specializing in natural and organic products, Sprouts offers a wide variety of organic and non-GMO foods at reasonable prices. They often run sales and promotions, making healthy food more budget-friendly.
• Grocery Outlet: This and other discount stores often have organic and non-GMO options at lower prices. Just make sure to read labels and check the expiration dates.
• Prioritize the Clean 15: Prioritizing items from the Clean 15 list, like avocados and sweet corn, allows you to buy conventionally grown produce with minimal pesticide residue, helping you save money without compromising on food safety.

Eating Clean Is Easier Than You Think

At first, eating clean might seem overwhelming or expensive, but with a few smart tips, it can be much easier—and cheaper—than you think. By planning ahead, reading labels, and shopping at affordable stores, you can make clean eating part of your routine without breaking the bank.

In 2024, protecting your health through clean eating is a simple and powerful step you can take to live a healthier life.