The Truth About 'Clean' Eating

Chicken, broccoli, and brown rice. Every day. For months. Sound familiar? This approach to "clean eating" is why most diets fail.

The 80/20 Rule

Sustainable fat loss isn't about perfection; it's about consistency. I advocate for the 80/20 rule: get 80% of your calories from whole, nutrient-dense foods, and save 20% for the foods you love.

Calories are King

Regardless of how "clean" your food is, if you eat more calories than you burn, you will not lose fat. Conversely, you can lose fat eating only processed food (though you'd feel terrible). The sweet spot is a calorie deficit driven by quality food but allowing for flexibility.

Psychological Sustainability

When you label foods as "bad" or "off-limits," you increase the likelihood of bingeing. By allowing yourself to have a slice of pizza or some chocolate in moderation, you remove the power those foods have over you.

The Takeaway: Stop treating your diet like a prison sentence. Eat nutrient-rich foods to feel good, but leave room for life.