In the quest for a healthier lifestyle, many turn to clean eating; a practice focused on consuming whole, unprocessed foods to nourish the body and enhance natural beauty. However, hidden toxins in some of our most beloved fruits and vegetables could be secretly sabotaging your efforts. Enter the Dirty Dozen, a list of produce with the highest levels of pesticide residues. Let’s explore how to protect your glow by making smarter choices.

What is Clean Eating?

At its core, clean eating emphasizes real, minimally processed foods, think fresh vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. It’s about stripping away additives, refined sugars, and artificial ingredients to allow your body to thrive naturally. However, even the most wholesome diets can be compromised if they’re packed with pesticide-laden produce.

The Dirty Dozen: What You Need to Know

Each year, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) releases the Dirty Dozen which is a list of the top 12 fruits and vegetables found to contain the highest pesticide levels. For 2024, the lineup included:

1. Strawberries 🍓
2. Spinach 🥬
3. Kale, Collard, and Mustard Greens
4. Peaches 🍑
5. Pears 🍐
6. Nectarines
7. Apples 🍏
8. Grapes 🍇
9. Bell and Hot Peppers 🌶️
10. Cherries 🍒
11. Blueberries 🫐
12. Green Beans

These popular picks may be packed with nutrients, but they’re also often coated with a cocktail of chemicals linked to hormone disruption, skin issues, and other health risks that can dull your glow.

How Hidden Toxins Affect Your Skin and Health

Toxins and pesticides can cause oxidative stress, leading to inflammation, breakouts, and a lackluster complexion. Long-term exposure can also impact your hormonal balance, digestion, and immunity, making it harder to maintain that radiant glow from within.

By prioritizing clean eating and minimizing toxin exposure, you help your body detoxify more efficiently, promoting clearer skin and improved energy levels.

Clean Eating Tips to Avoid Hidden Toxins

• Go Organic for the Dirty Dozen: Whenever possible, buy organic versions of these high-risk items to reduce pesticide intake.
• Focus on the Clean Fifteen: These are fruits and veggies with the least pesticide residues—like avocados, sweet corn, and pineapples.
• Wash Thoroughly: Use a baking soda and water solution to soak and rinse conventional produce.
• Diversify Your Diet: Eating a wide variety of fruits and veggies minimizes the risk of pesticide overload from a single source.
• Grow Your Own: Even a small herb garden can ensure a pesticide-free addition to your meals.

Glow From the Inside Out

Combining clean eating practices with smart shopping choices can dramatically reduce your exposure to hidden toxins, helping you reclaim your glow naturally. By avoiding the Dirty Dozen or opting for organic, you empower your body to shine—inside and out.

So, the next time you shop, let the Dirty Dozen guide your choices and keep your healthy eating journey truly healthy!

To Good Health,
Marcey, Certified Health Coach & Trichologist

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