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What are some of the most common artificial additives to watch out for when reading food labels?

Heaven Poure

Well, well, well, look who's concerned about their health and what they put in their body! Don't worry, my friend, you are not alone. In fact, being conscious about what we eat and how it affects us has become a hot topic, and for a good reason. We all want to feel good, energized, and stay healthy. But, let's be real, with all the artificial additives and preservatives found in food these days, it's hard to know which ones to watch out for. That's why I'm here to help you out, and together, we'll navigate through this maze of chemical names.

First things first, let's talk about what artificial additives are. They are substances that are not naturally present in food but added to enhance or preserve its flavor, texture, color or shelf life. Now, don't get me wrong, not all of them are bad, and some are even necessary to keep food safe and fresh. However, some additives have been linked to health problems such as allergies, asthma, hyperactivity, and even cancer. So, it's important to know which ones to watch out for when reading food labels.

One of the most common artificial additives you'll find in food is high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS). You'll find it in almost everything from soda to bread, candy, and even salad dressing! HFCS is a sweetener made from corn starch and is cheaper than sugar, so it's widely used by the food industry. However, it's been linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and even heart disease. So, watch out for this one!

Another additive to keep an eye on is monosodium glutamate (MSG). It's used to enhance the flavor of savory foods like snacks, soups, and frozen foods. However, some people are sensitive to MSG and may experience headaches, sweating, and nausea when consuming it. So, if you're one of those people, make sure to avoid it.

Let's not forget about artificial coloring. Have you ever wondered why your favorite candy or soda has such bright colors? Well, it's not because they grow that way! Artificial coloring is added to food to make it look more appetizing. However, some dyes like Red 40 and Yellow 5 have been linked to hyperactivity in children and even cancer. So, choose foods that are naturally colorful, and you'll be good to go.

Last but not least, we have preservatives. They are added to food to prevent spoilage, but some of them are not so friendly to our health. For example, sodium nitrate is commonly used to preserve meats like bacon and ham, but it has been linked to colorectal cancer. So, if you're a meat lover, make sure to choose products that are nitrate-free.

In conclusion, being aware of what we put in our body is essential for our health and wellbeing. When reading food labels, watch out for HFCS, MSG, artificial coloring, and preservatives like sodium nitrate. Choose foods that are as close to their natural state as possible, and your body will thank you. Stay healthy, my friend, and happy eating!