processed foods

Health Tip: You Really Think a Triple Bypass is a Good Option?

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Today’s Health Tip

Limit processed foods: Processed foods are often high in unhealthy fats, sugar, and sodium.

Growing up in my Italian neighborhood processed foods were considered part of the healthy foods pyramid. On Saturdays my mom would buy a couple long loaves of crusty Italian bread, stop by the deli and buy and assortment of cold cuts. Little surprise all of my uncles and my dad had triple bypass surgery. The only good thing I can say about processed meats they bought is that I enjoyed eating them. I don’t eat them now and haven’t for years. Still, if I go out for pizza with friends and see a pepperoni pizza delivered to the table next to our table, I start salivating. Bottom line? Who needs a triple bypass.

Great Healthy Tips:

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Today’s Great Healthy Tip

Limit Processed Foods ~ Processed snacks are high in sugar, salt, and preservatives. Focus on whole, natural foods to support longevity.

I prefer to cook my meals. When I cook my meals I know what food I am using. Our bodies are like an engine. What we put in the engine affects how it runs. If we put sugar in our car’s gas tank, the motor is finished. Sugar is on my Do Not Buy list. It’s good to have a Do Not Buy List. Anything that makes the list is not doing us any favors. Cancel their passport.

    Important Health Tip: Read the Labels to Stay Healthy

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    Today’s Health Tip

    Avoid trans fats, commonly found in processed and fried foods.

    Health Facts: Think Twice Before Eating Processed Foods

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    Processed food is any food that has been altered from its natural state through methods such as freezing, canning, cooking, drying, or adding preservatives and other ingredients. This includes foods that are packaged for convenience, contain added sugars, fats, or artificial additives, and often have reduced nutritional value compared to whole, unprocessed foods.

    Here are five critical reasons to avoid processed foods:

    1. High in Unhealthy Additives: Processed foods often contain artificial preservatives, flavors, colors, and other chemicals that can be harmful to health. These additives can increase the risk of conditions like allergies, cancer, and hormonal imbalances.
    2. Excessive Sugar and Salt: Many processed foods are loaded with added sugars and sodium to enhance flavor and extend shelf life. High sugar and salt intake can lead to obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular diseases.
    3. Low in Nutritional Value: Processing strips foods of many essential nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and fiber. This can lead to nutritional deficiencies, poor digestion, and a weakened immune system.
    4. Linked to Chronic Diseases: Diets high in processed foods are associated with an increased risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. The combination of unhealthy fats, sugars, and preservatives contributes to inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.
    5. Negative Impact on Gut Health: Processed foods are often low in fiber and high in artificial ingredients that can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria, leading to digestive problems and poor overall gut health. A healthy gut is essential for digestion, immunity, and mental well-being.

    Avoiding or minimizing processed foods and focusing on whole, plant-based options can promote better long-term health.

    Health Tip of the Day ~ Feed a Good Mood

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    Eat With Your Mood in Mind

    Your food choices has an impact on your overall physical health. Some foodsscan also affect your state of mind. For example:

      • Carbohydrates release serotonin, a “feel good” hormone. Just keep simple carbs — foods high in sugar and starch — to a minimum because that energy surge is short and you’ll crash. Choosing complex carbs, such as vegetables, beans, and whole grains, can help you avoid a crash while still providing serotonin.
      • Lean meat, poultry, legumes, and dairy are high in protein. Protein-rich foods release dopamine and norepinephrine, which boost energy and concentration.
      • Omega-3 fatty acids, such as those found in fatty fish, have been found to have anti-inflammatory effectsTrusted Source that extend to your overall brain health. If you don’t eat fish, you might consider talking with a doctor about possible supplementation.
      • Highly processed or deep-fried foods tend to leave you feeling down and so will skipping meals.

    If you want to eat with your mood in mind, consider starting with making one food choice for your mood each day.

    For example, swap a big, sweet breakfast pastry for some Greek yogurt with fruit. You’ll still satisfy your sweet tooth, and the protein will help you avoid a midmorning energy crash. Consider adding in a new food swap each week.

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