While I try to avoid processed foods, sometimes you just need a snack on the go.
My rule for choosing processed foods is that they must not contain seed oils, artificial flavors, or natural flavors. They also must not include any nut flours as heating nut flours (like almond flour) will cause the healthy fats to mutate into toxic fats (PUFAs). I also try to avoid snacks made with agave, flaxseeds, chickpeas, peanuts, pea protein, rice protein, rice syrup, lentils, and soy.
In recent years, as our diets have shifted towards convenience, the prevalence of processed foods has soared. While these items may offer a quick solution for our busy lives, it's crucial to understand the potential pitfalls lurking in the ingredients list. Two culprits that often go unnoticed are seed oils and artificial flavors, both of which can have detrimental effects on our health.
The Dark Side of Seed Oils:
Seed oils, including:
Canola oil
Corn oil
Cottonseed oil
Grapeseed oil
Palm oil
Peanut oil
Ricebran oil
Safflower oil
Sunflower oil
Soybean oil
And anything labeled ‘Vegetable oil’
…have become staples in many processed foods due to their low cost and high availability. However, their ubiquity comes at a cost to our health. These oils are rich in omega-6 fatty acids, and an imbalanced ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 in our diet has been linked to inflammation, a precursor to various chronic diseases.
Moreover, the processing methods involved in extracting these oils often involve heat and chemicals, which can lead to the formation of harmful compounds. The oxidative stress induced by consuming seed oils may contribute to issues such as cardiovascular disease and metabolic disorders.
The Deceptive Allure of Artificial Flavors:
Artificial flavors, frequently used to enhance the taste of processed foods, present another concern. While they may provide an illusion of indulgence, they often contain a concoction of chemicals that our bodies are not naturally designed to process. Some of these chemicals have been linked to allergic reactions, headaches, and, in some cases, more serious health issues.
Natural flavors, on the other hand, are not without their challenges. While they are derived from real sources, the processes involved in extraction and synthesis may result in a final product that is far from the original, potentially losing the nutritional benefits found in the whole food.
Empowering Choices for a Healthier Future:
As consumers, being mindful of what we put into our bodies is key to making informed choices. Opting for whole, unprocessed foods and choosing cooking oils with a balanced omega-6 to omega-3 ratio, such as olive or avocado oil, can contribute to a healthier lifestyle.
Consider the impact of your food choices on your well-being. By steering clear of heavily processed foods laden with seed oils and artificial flavors, you empower yourself to embrace a more wholesome, nourishing diet that supports long-term health. It's time to make conscious decisions that prioritize our well-being over convenience.
