We live in a health-conscious society. Everywhere we turn, we’re bombarded with messages about the importance of living a healthy lifestyle. And while there’s nothing wrong with that, there is such a thing as being “too healthy.” In fact, being too health-conscious can actually be dangerous. Here’s why:
You Miss Out on Important Nutrients
When you’re obsessed with eating healthy all the time, you run the risk of missing out on important nutrients. For example, if you’re someone who only eats “clean” foods, you may not be getting enough vitamins and minerals. Why? Because some of the best sources of vitamins and minerals are actually unhealthy foods! Take tomatoes, for instance. They’re packed with lycopene, an important antioxidant that’s good for your heart. But tomatoes are also high in sugar. So if you’re avoiding all sugar, you’re also avoiding lycopene.
You deprive yourself of enjoyment
Let’s face it: healthy food isn’t always the tastiest food. Sure, there are some exceptions to the rule (avocados come to mind), but generally speaking, healthy food just doesn’t taste as good as unhealthy food. And that’s not a bad thing! Part of the reason why unhealthy food tastes so good is because it’s loaded with fat, salt, and sugar—all things that our bodies crave. When you eat healthy all the time, you deny yourself the pleasure of indulging in those cravings. As a result, you may find yourself feeling deprived and unsatisfied.
You put unnecessary stress on your body
Constantly worrying about what you’re eating takes a toll on your mental and physical health. Studies have shown that people who are constantly dieting are more likely to suffer from anxiety and depression. They’re also more likely to develop an unhealthy relationship with food. So if you’re someone who’s always stressing about eating the “right” things, it might be time to reconsider your approach to health and nutrition.
Of course, there’s nothing wrong with wanting to be healthy. But it’s important to remember that there is such a thing as being too healthy. When you get too caught up in eating clean and being perfect all the time, you miss out on important nutrients, enjoyment, and even put unnecessary stress on your body. So instead of worrying about being perfect, focus on enjoying your food and living a balanced life. Your body—and your sanity—will thank you for it!