Table 2 Perceived reasons for adopting various “clean” diets

Description (excerpt): “Consists of…”

…avoiding all foods that contain the protein gluten, which is found in grains such as wheat, barley, and rye.

…avoiding all meat, eggs, dairy, and any other animal products.

…a meal replacement (such as a protein/ vitamin/mineral-rich shake, bar, or juice) consumed in place of a normal meal.

…avoiding all acid-forming foods such as meat, fish, and most legumes; people who are on an alkaline diet consume food such as vegetables, fruits, and certain nuts and seeds to help balance the pH levels of the blood.

…eating assorted vegetables, fruits, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, and a variety of protein products (such as seafood, lean meats, eggs, and nuts), while limiting consumption of foods that are fried or have added sugars.

Reason for adopting diet

M (SD)

M (SD)

M (SD)

M (SD)

M (SD)

M (SD)

For weight loss

3.10 (1.22)

3.40 (1.17)

4.20 (0.91)

3.15 (1.10)

3.97 (1.01)

3.57 (0.69)

To treat illness

3.28 (1.23)

3.18 (1.20)

2.23 (1.20)

3.21 (1.20)

3.19 (1.22)

3.03 (0.85)

To prevent illness

3.02 (1.20)

3.43 (1.03)

2.22 (1.10)

3.35 (1.06)

3.55 (1.12)

3.11 (0.73)

To be healthier

3.56 (1.06)

4.11 (0.91)

3.60 (1.08)

3.75 (0.88)

4.48 (0.68)

3.90 (0.61)

To feel superior to others

2.44 (1.36)

2.80 (1.49)

2.62 (1.34)

2.41 (1.32)

2.25 (1.19)

2.50 (1.13)

To improve skin

2.56 (1.10)

3.12 (1.21)

2.58 (1.18)

2.96 (1.10)

3.14 (1.13)

2.87 (0.82)

Due to social pressure

2.43 (1.24)

2.81 (1.34)

2.44 (1.23)

2.18 (1.18)

2.66 (1.16)

2.51 (0.99)

To feel in control of their diet

3.32 (1.15)

3.66 (1.14)

3.49 (1.10)

3.28 (1.11)

3.75 (0.99)

3.50 (0.85)