🍽️ Why You Should Be Counting Chemicals, Not Calories?🍋☠️

Why You Should Be Counting Chemicals, Not Calories: A New Approach to Healthy Living

When it comes to healthy eating, most of us have been trained to count calories. But what if I told you that focusing solely on calories misses the bigger picture of what truly affects our health? In his insightful book, Dr. Kenneth Smithchallenges the calorie-centric mindset and urges us to pay attention to the chemicals in our food instead.

The Problem with Counting Calories

Counting calories assumes all calories are equal — 100 calories of candy are the same as 100 calories of vegetables. But they’re not. The quality of the food and its chemical composition play a huge role in how it impacts our body, energy, hormones, and overall well-being.

Processed foods often contain a cocktail of additives, preservatives, artificial flavors, and hidden toxins that our bodies struggle to process. These chemicals can disrupt hormones, gut health, and even brain function — all of which are vital for sustained energy, mood stability, and long-term wellness.

What Does “Counting Chemicals” Mean?

Instead of obsessing over calories, Dr. Smith suggests we start looking at what’s inside our food:

• Are there artificial additives, colors, or preservatives?

• Does the product contain hidden sugars or unhealthy fats?

• Is the food heavily processed or close to its natural state?

• What about pesticide residues or environmental toxins?

The goal is to reduce your intake of harmful chemicals and focus on real, whole foods that nourish your body naturally.

Practical Tips Inspired by Dr. Kenneth Smith’s Approach

Here are some simple ways you can start counting chemicals, not calories — and improve your health as a result:

1. Choose Whole Foods Over Processed Ones

   
   

   Fresh vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and legumes are naturally low in harmful chemicals and rich in nutrients.

2. Read Ingredient Labels Carefully

   
   

   Avoid products with long ingredient lists full of unrecognizable chemicals and preservatives. The shorter and more natural, the better.

3. Cut Out Artificial Sweeteners and Colors

   
   

   These are common in many packaged foods and drinks and can have negative effects on metabolism and gut health.

4. Support Organic and Pesticide-Free Produce

   
   

   Whenever possible, buy organic or locally grown food to reduce your exposure to pesticides and herbicides.

5. Cook More at Home

   
   

   Preparing your meals allows you to control exactly what goes into your food, reducing your chemical intake.

6. Stay Hydrated with Clean Water

   Avoid sugary drinks or artificially flavored beverages that often contain additives.

Why This Matters for ADHD and Detox Too

This chemical-focused mindset is especially important if you’re managing conditions like ADHD, where brain chemistry is sensitive. Reducing toxins can help balance neurotransmitters and improve focus naturally.

It also ties into detox and fasting practices — by minimizing chemical intake, you give your body space to reset and heal more efficiently.

Final Thoughts

Switching from counting calories to counting chemicals is a powerful mindset shift. It moves us away from restrictive dieting and towards mindful, nourishing choices that fuel our health at a deeper level.

If you want to learn more about natural detox, nutrition, and wellness strategies that support your body and mind, stay tuned to my blog or reach out for a personalized consultation.

Anna Pitt 💚Founder, Green Bean Wellness

Instagram: @imannapitt

Website: www.greenbeanwellness.com