🚫 8 Ingredients to Avoid in Processed Foods

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8 Ingredients to Avoid in Processed Foods

Processed foods are convenient and often irresistible, but many contain ingredients that may not be good for your health if consumed in large amounts.

Here's a list of eight ingredients to watch out for when you're browsing the grocery aisles:

1. Trans Fats: Often listed as "partially hydrogenated oils," trans fats are associated with an increased risk of heart disease and should be avoided completely.

2. High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS): Frequently used as a sweetener in sodas and sweets, HFCS can contribute to obesity and diabetes when consumed in excess.

3. Sodium Nitrate/Nitrite: Commonly found in processed meats like bacon and hot dogs, these compounds can form nitrosamines in the body, which are potential carcinogens.

4. Monosodium Glutamate (MSG): Used as a flavor enhancer in many processed foods, MSG can cause headaches and other symptoms in sensitive individuals.

5. Artificial Colors: Found in candies, beverages, and more, some artificial colors have been linked to behavioral issues in children and possible cancer risk.

6. Artificial Sweeteners: Ingredients like aspartame, sucralose, and saccharin may help reduce sugar intake but can also cause digestive issues and may affect gut health.

7. Artificial Flavors: These chemically created flavors mimic natural flavors but offer no nutritional value and may encourage overeating.

8. Preservatives: Chemicals like sodium benzoate and BHA are used to extend shelf life but have been questioned for their effects on human health, including potential links to cancer.

Basics of Preventing Muscle Loss as We Age

As we age, combating muscle loss is crucial for maintaining strength and mobility. Strength training is beneficial; incorporating activities like weight lifting, resistance bands, or bodyweight exercises helps stimulate muscle growth. Ensuring a high protein intake is also vital, with older adults aiming for 1.2 to 1.5 grams per kilogram of body weight daily from sources like lean meats and legumes.

Regular physical activity, such as walking or swimming, and ensuring adequate intake of key nutrients like vitamin D and calcium support muscle function. A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, along with staying hydrated, particularly around exercise, helps preserve muscle health. These steps can significantly reduce muscle loss, maintaining strength and independence as you age.

In short, meeting the basics of The 95/5 Rule of Fitness will ensure you combat muscle loss.

Vitamin K: A Key Antioxidant for Health

Vitamin E is a crucial nutrient known for its powerful antioxidant properties. It plays an important role in protecting cells from oxidative stress caused by free radicals, molecules that can damage cells and contribute to chronic diseases. Beyond its antioxidant capabilities, Vitamin E is essential for immune function, skin health, and cell signaling.

Benefits of Vitamin E:

1. Skin Health: Vitamin E helps maintain skin integrity and appearance. It is often found in skin care products because of its ability to improve skin moisture and elasticity.

2. Immune Support: Adequate levels of Vitamin E are important for maintaining a robust immune system, especially among older adults.

3. Eye Health: Vitamin E can contribute to eye health by potentially reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration and cataracts when taken in combination with other nutrients.

For men over 40, the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for Vitamin E is 15 milligrams per day.

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Publisher: Ryan Engel

Editor: Michael Pender

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