In the fast paced modern world that we currently live in, it is quite difficult to avoid the consumption of Ultra-processed food. For example you are late for work and you wish to eat before going, what do you do? Yeah you will mostly grab a box of cereal, prepare it and you are good to go.
Also a lot of individuals find it easier to just unbox food and eat without going through the stress of cooking the meal. Also, in this part of the world, to some individuals it is considered a form of luxury or “enjoying the good life” when you can afford packed meals or snacks. However, do you know that these foods are very bad for you?
What is Ultra-Processed Food?
Ultra-processed foods are packed foods that contain additives such artificial sweeteners, emulsifiers, colors, preservatives, artificial flavours and so on. These “foods” have zero nutrients and are only full of calories and ingredients that are harmful to human health. Some very good examples of Ultra-processed foods are Coco Pops,Carbonated drinks such as Pepsi and Coca Cola, M&Ms, Breakfast Cereals, Sausages, Oreos and so on.
How Dangerous Is Ultra-Processed Food
According to a study report released on BMJ global health, it was revealed that those who consume ultra-processed food have a 21 percent high risk of death, 66 percent higher chance of dying from heart disease, 12 percent higher chances of getting cancer, 38 percent higher chances of obesity and 40 percent higher chance of developing type 2 diabetes.
Apart from the dangers it has on our physical health, it also has negative effects on the mental health as people who consume ultra-processed food have a 48 percent higher chance of anxiety and also 22 percent higher chance of developing depression.
What is the difference between Processed and Ultra-Processed Food?
Processed foods are agricultural products that are turned into foods such as milk, cheese, grain, flour, wine, bread and so on while ultra-processed foods are processed foods with a high presence of additives such as emulsifiers and so on.
How To Recognize Processed Foods
It can be quite difficult to differentiate processed foods from Ultra-Processed foods,therefore, the best way to recognize ultra-processed food is by ensuring you check the label and ingredients in your packed foods.
When checking the labels and ingredients, always avoid packed foods with long ingredient lists, rather, opt for the ones with just a few ingredients list ranging from 4-5 ingredients. Also always be on the lookout for ingredients such as , hydrolyzed proteins, E250, modified starch, E950, glucose-fructose syrup and so on.
How To Avoid The Temptation
Ultra-Processed foods are delicious and it can be quite difficult to resist the urge to indulge in their sweetness, however, always remember the long term health damage that these few moments of pleasure can bring. Also look for more healthier alternatives to these foods. If you cannot cook or do not enjoy cooking, research for restaurants with healthy food alternatives and eat or order from there.
Also be on the lookout for PR messages from the big chain of companies that produce these harmful foods as they will not go down easily. They will try to shove these foods down people’s throats by calling them “Healthy”. Remember to make the right choices only.
