15 "Healthy" Habits You Should Quit ASAP

There's no specific definition for "clean" eating, but broadly, it's a dietary pattern that eliminates most processed foods. In theory, it's a sound and health-promoting diet. In reality, it has a dark side.

"When new clients say they eat clean, I know that what they are doing is elevating certain types of food as 'good' and 'clean' while demonizing all other food as 'bad,'" dietitian Brittany Markides says. "Because the thought that the foods they are craving are 'bad' is deeply ingrained, eating these foods causes guilt and shame."

In some people, experts say, clean eating may spiral out of control and lead to disordered eating habits, or even an eating disorder called orthorexia— sometimes described as an unhealthy obsession with healthy eating.

Restrictive diets like clean eating may beget short-term results, but they're usually not sustainable. A registered dietitian can help you find an eating plan that keeps you physically and mentally healthy for the long term.

[Photo via @sculptedpilates]