Did you know that most foods that you purchase are heavily processed with the exception of fresh fruits, veggies, whole grains or raw nuts which are still “minimally processed” because they require washing, removing unwanted parts, refrigeration or freezing? But, this is ok because they haven't been stripped of all of their nutrients and nothing harmful has been added. In other words, you should avoid processed foods that contain harmful additives such as, artificial or refined substances. Simply because they aren't good for you!
What are refined or artificial substances and why you should avoid them?
Artificial Substances
Artificial substances are added to food to maintain it's shelf life/freshness and to improve appearance, taste or texture. So, you should take the opportunity to check the nutrition labels before purchasing because these are what some of the additives look like.
- MSG
- Sodium Nitrate
- Sodium Bisulfite
- Calcium Sulfite
- Artificial Food Colouring
- High Fructose Corn Syrup
- Artificial Sweeteners
- Guar Gum
- Potassium Sitrate
- Trans Fat
- Xanthan Gum
- Sodium Benzoate
- Sulphur Dioxide
- Zinc Acetate
- Benzyl Acetate
- Artificial Flavouring
Refined Substances
Refined substances are white sugar or foods that have been processed and stripped of their vitamins, minerals and fiber. After that, only the starch is left behind. And, you may not realize that these starches along with refined sugars are commonly found in breads, cereals, baked goods, granola bars, condiments, some canned goods, battered & frozen dinners, etc. Most important, studies show when you consume too much refined carbs and sugar it can lead to diabetes, high blood pressure, weight gain and heart disease.
Processed Foods To Avoid
- Soft Drinks (pop, flavoured water, concentrated juice, sport drinks, milk based drinks)
- Fast food
- Baked Goods (cakes, pies, cookies, packaged cookies)
- Cereals, Granola Bars, Low Fat Protein Bars
- Crackers
- Low Fat Yogurts
- Trans Fat
- Breads
- Deli Meats
- Frozen Dinners, Pizza, Fries, Battered Foods, Desserts, Ice Cream,
- All Salted Snacks
- Some Condiments
- Canned Goods (except some beans, legumes, tomato sauces)
What do modified foods do to your body?
Try to avoid most ultra-processed foods because over time they can cause illness. For instance, diabetes, high blood pressure, weight gain, heart disease, stagnant liver and other common diseases.
Healthy Tip
If there is anything in a list of ingredients that you are unsure of or if the item has more than 5-6 ingredients, it may be best to choose something else.
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Benefits of Eating a Liver Healthy Diet
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Try many delicious recipes click here that will make the transition to a liver healthy diet super easy.
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