Processed foods are those foods have been completely altered from their natural state. They have been changed in order to enhance their shelf life, texture, flavour or taste.Whilst, in theory, it is easy to stay away from these processed foods, it becomes difficult when we are unsure about what constitutes a food that is processed. The following is a list of the best ways in which to avoid processed foods:
- By reading the ingredients, you will get a clearer picture if the food is processed. If what you are purchasing has a long list of ingredients that are unfamiliar or unknown, or are difficult to pronounce, the chances are, it is highly processed.
- By increasing your consumption of whole foods such as fruits and vegetables, the consumption of processed foods are naturally decreased.
- Be mindful of ingredients. The clue is in the amount of ingredients in the product. Why would it take over 15 ingredients to make bread when all you need is just a handful?
- Do not always believe marketing. Look at the ingredients to make sure it is really natural and healthful!
- High fructose corn syrup, MSG, trans fats are clear markers for a highly processed food.
- Avoid take away foods such as French fries, hamburgers and pizza. They are all bursting with highly processed items in the oils, cheese and even the meat has processed products in the preparation of it. The kid's menu very often consists of hot chips, nuggets and processed white pasta. Instead, make a meal up by ordering a baked potato and vegetables.
- It is important to eat fruits and vegetables that are in season, this way you they are at their peak nutritionally. The best way to get these are at the local farmer's market.
- By making our own "junk foods" such as cakes, muffins, biscuits, we are decreasing the consumption of processed foods as we prepare it with real butter, eggs etc rather than trans fats, preservatives and colour. Check out some of the healthy and delicious recipes on this website.
A nutritionist or a dietitian is able to guide on a healthy, less processed diet.
Originally published on Jul 27, 2012
