It’s time to get real about our food, quite literally. We need to talk about what kind of crap the FDA is allowing us to consume, why its not okay and what we should really be eating.
Let’s talk a little bit about processed foods, shall we?
What are processed foods?
Foods that have been altered from their natural state.
Why are they so bad?
Processed foods are altered by artificial ingredients; think not actual food. You know, the list of 20 different ingredients that you can’t pronounce? Well, they’re probably not even real food, but chemicals that give it a certain color or texture.
They are usually high in sugar and high fructose corn syrup, and I think we have all read the dangers excess sugar in our diet, but if you haven’t- check this article out.
They have little nutritional value. Having been altered so much, any nutritional substance the food had before is stripped away and replaced with the nasty chemicals we previously talked about.
They are usually loaded with unhealthy fat. Think Trans- fat, which can lead to a greater risk of heart disease and obesity.
Here are some ways you can avoid these bad boys.
(It’s easier than you might think!)
- Make your own salad dressing- Making your own salad dressing is super easy and takes no time at all. Simply drizzle your salad with extra- virgin olive oil, lemon and pepper. Feel free to add any other spices you might enjoy. I promise, you won’t miss the chunky monkey ranch at all.
- Cook your meals at home during the week and splurge with a meal (or two) out on the weekend- Just make it a priority to cook meals during the week. Take some time out on Sunday and figure out what you will have each day. Write a grocery list and stock up with everything you need. It may take a little extra time, but the benefits outweigh the hassle, and honestly, it isn’t that time consuming once you get in the habit.
- Shop at a farmers market- Try to find a good farmers market in your area. I am lucky enough to have one just a few minutes away and I frequent it at least two times a week. You will find the freshest produce at the best price.If you don’t have one near, stick to the rule of shopping on the outside edge of the grocery store. This is where you will find fruits, veggies and high quality meats.
- Read labels- Simply don’t buy anything you can’t pronounce or you do not know what it is. As I stated before, it’s probably an artificial chemical that wants to wreak havoc on your body.
- Decide to have veggies and fruits at every meal- Mainly your veggies. I know it can sometimes be hard to fit them in at breakfast, but make it a priority for lunch and dinner. The fiber they provide will fill you up, while providing all kinds of nutrients your body needs to stay strong and healthy.
- Stick to whole grain- They are unrefined, which means they have plenty of fiber and their nutrients haven’t been stripped away.
I hope this has shed some light on what processed foods actually are and ways you can avoid them.
What are you tricks to eating healthy, whole foods instead of a pre- packaged option?
