Ultraprocessed Foods: What They Are and How to Avoid Them
What are ultraprocessed foods?
Ultraprocessed foods are foods that have been heavily processed, often with the addition of artificial ingredients such as preservatives, colorings, and flavors.
They are typically high in calories, sugar, and unhealthy fats, and low in nutrients such as fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Some examples of ultraprocessed foods include:
- Packaged snacks such as chips, crackers, and cookies
- Frozen meals
- Canned soups
- Sugary cereals
- Processed meats such as hot dogs and bacon
Why should you avoid ultraprocessed foods?
There is a growing body of evidence that ultraprocessed foods are linked to a number of health problems, including:
- Obesity
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Type 2 diabetes
- Cancer
This is likely due to the fact that ultraprocessed foods are often high in calories, sugar, and unhealthy fats, and low in nutrients such as fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Additionally, the artificial ingredients in ultraprocessed foods can have negative effects on health.
How to avoid ultraprocessed foods
The best way to avoid ultraprocessed foods is to cook more meals at home using fresh, whole ingredients. This way, you can control the ingredients that go into your food and make sure that you are getting the nutrients you need.
Here are some tips for avoiding ultraprocessed foods:
- Read food labels carefully and avoid foods that contain a long list of ingredients, especially artificial ingredients.
- Shop the perimeter of the grocery store, where you will find fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Cook more meals at home using fresh, whole ingredients.
- Choose minimally processed foods over ultraprocessed foods when possible.
By following these tips, you can reduce your intake of ultraprocessed foods and improve your overall health.
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