Is packaged food bad for your health? The answer depends on how processed the food is. Most processed foods contain added sugar, fat, and salt. You can usually find nutritional information about pre-packed foods on their packaging. They usually contain green, amber, and red colour-coded labels. Choose green or amber-coloured products when you’re shopping. Some processed foods are also highly processed. If you’re concerned about your health, read the nutrition label carefully.
Studies show that packaged food may increase your risk of cancer. One study found a direct connection between the consumption of processed foods and a greater risk of death. That finding was confirmed by researchers from France and Spain. The researchers noted that while minimally processed foods taste good, they have a negative impact on our bodies. Researchers found that these processed foods increase the production of hormones that suppress appetite and cause hunger. The exact biological reason for this connection remains unclear, but it did show an increase in cancer risks among those who consumed the most processed foods.
Artificial chemicals are added to processed foods to improve the taste, texture, and shelf life. Food manufacturers are not required to list the specific chemicals that they add, and instead use the word “artificial flavor” to hide the use of proprietary blends of additives. They are known to cause allergies and health problems, so it’s important to cut down on the amount of these additives. By cutting back on added sugar, you can make your diet healthier without compromising on convenience.
