Watch out for chemically-processed foods

One could argue that all food is processed in some way. But it's the food that has been chemically processed that needs to be avoided. Foods that fall into this category have refined ingredients and artificial substances that are not generally good for our bodies. After all, they are chemicals!

The dangers of chemically processed foods

A great deal of planning and engineering goes into processed foods. Food manufacturers' ultimate goal is to get the consumer hooked on their product. To make foods this desirable, they have to taste great. But dietitian Shayna Komar of Cancer Wellness at Piedmont says our bodies aren't designed to break down chemically processed foods.

"Our bodies were not made to digest processed foods, so they don't really know how to use them. As a result, these foods don't give us the fuel our bodies need. Instead, they are filled with empty calories."

Processed foods are usually HIGH in:

Sugar or high fructose corn syrup. Sweeteners are used in processed foods because people generally love sweet food. Some say sugar is even more addictive than cocaine. Many studies show a link between high sugar intake and diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.

Artificial ingredients. It's not a good sign when you can't pronounce the ingredients on a package. Hard-to-pronounce words are usually added chemicals. Common additives include preservatives, coloring, flavorings and texturants used to enhance a product's appearance, taste and shelf life.

Refined carbohydrates. The carbohydrates in processed foods are usually refined, "simple" carbohydrates. These can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar and insulin levels, leaving people craving more carbohydrates within hours.

Trans fats or processed vegetable oils. Many food manufacturers use cheap hydrogenated fats and oils that become trans fats, the worst kind for you. Trans fats raise your bad (LDL) cholesterol levels and lower your good (HDL) cholesterol levels. According to the American Heart Association, trans fats raise the risk of heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes.

Processed foods are usually LOW in:

Nutrients. Some synthetic nutrients may be added to processed foods, but they don't replace the natural nutrients found in whole foods. Processed food just lacks the nutritional value of real food.

Fiber. Most processed foods are very low in fiber because it is lost or intentionally removed during processing. Fiber plays a few very important roles in our bodies. It functions as a prebiotic, feeding the friendly bacteria in the intestine. It keeps constipation in check. Fiber can also slow down the absorption of carbohydrates, helping you feel fuller and more satisfied for longer.

Eat processed foods in moderation

While processed foods are typically convenient, Komar warns that they should be eaten in moderation.

"The best foods to eat are always clean, whole foods. They are the ones that provide power for your body which actually energizes you."

Komar believes people who have poor eating habits are ultimately "hangry" in life—hungry and angry. Processed foods may contribute to sluggish and irritable feelings. Often, people don't even realize they are living in this rut, but there is a way out. Komar has seen many patients change their eating habits and ultimately "come alive."

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