Disadvantages of Processed Foods

Basic Info

Processed foods come with many advantages for the majority of people. Whether it's a microwaveable dinner, fast food, frozen, or canned, it serves a purpose for those on the go or don't want to cook. Despite the advantages of processed foods, when it comes to one's health the disadvantages seem to outweigh the advantages. Processed foods contain a number of artificial ingredients that can have long term negative effects on a person's health even though approved as safe and ineffective by the FDA. There are hundreds of artificial ingredients in foods but here are a few commonly used ingredients that are often casuse negative symtoms: msg, olestra, artificial colorings, flavorings, sweeteners, benzoate preservatives, brominated vegetable oil, and high fructose corn syrup.

Why They're Used

There are a number of reason why artificial ingredients are used in foods. Some of the reason are they are less espensive to use then their natural counterparts, they enhance the appearance, flavor, and texture of foods, they prolong the shelf life of foods, etc.

Negative Side Effects

The negative side effects include headaches, asthma, fatigue, increased cholesterol level,

increased risk for type 2 diabetes, hyperactivity, etc.

Is there an Alternative Option?

There is an alternative option and that option is eating organic or all natural foods.

Unlike their conventional counterparts, organic and all natural foods are made and grown without artificial ingrdients, preservatives, and without the spraying of pesticides. They are also said to be better for one's health. Organic foods come in microwaveable dinners, frozen food items, packaged items, and canned goods.The only thing that most people would say is a disadvantage to buying all natural foods their ofte high prices; however stores such as Wal-Mart, Target, and Kroger have their own line of organc products that are sold at affordable prices. Some may still argue that it's better to buy non organic food items in order to save money, but i say when it comes to good health and a longer live, those things matter more than saving money.