Processed Food Part Two….

As we discussed last time these foods include added sugars, refined grains, and refined seed/vegetable oils.  We also learned how these ultra-processed foods with added sugars are very addictive.  Added sugar is found in 74% of foods that are found in this country.  Three are many kinds of added sugars added and to make it trickier they use over 50 different names for them.  If added sugar was so good for you, why are we trying to hide it?

Remember these two things about added sugar; it is addictive and they blend the foods in such a way you eat more and more of them. 

What are refined oils. These are made in a factory under harsh temperatures and dangerous chemicals are needed.  Why would we create these, they are cheaper to make. Compare this to plant pressed oils(olive oil) or oils taken right from the animal such as butter/ghee. These are much better for you and not nearly as processed.

Examples of refined oils are soy, canola, vegetable, corn, and sunflower to name a few.  These types of oils are rich in bad omega-6 fats, which are highly inflammatory.  Often these are found in flavored creamers, some plant-based milks(usually flavored), salad dressings, hummus, things in a package like crackers, and store bought bakery items.   

Lastly, we need to debunk refined grains and highly refined grains.  Go back to a whole grain which has all its parts. This would include a kernel of corn, grain of brown rice, or a wheatberry. No part of these have been removed and they all still contain full nutrient content. Minimally processed grains are those that started whole but were crushed to make something; such as a loaf of whole grain bread. Even oats are minimally processed.

When we take away the bran and germ that contain all the nutrients we have moved to the ultra-refined/processed grain. Removing those parts of the grain make a better textured item and it can be on the shelf for much longer.  These are nutrient lacking foods!

Just a quick reminder of the negative impacts of ultra-refined grains. Higher glucose levels that lead to more consumption of bad foods and risk of diabetes. Empty calorie/nutrient lacking foods and an unhealthy microbiome which impacts your immune system, gut health, and brain health.  When you avoid ultra-processed foods, you also leave out many strongly carcinogenic additives! Make your first small change today to improve the quality of your health😊