“Yum, sodium nitrate!” Ever hear someone say that before sinking their teeth into a juicy hot dog or some crispy bacon?
Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy
Probably not. Most of us aren’t aware of the chemicals in our cuisine. Yet additive-laced processed foods have become more American than apple pie.
A recent study estimates that highly processed foods make up nearly 60% of the American diet.
Food that is processed has been altered, in some way, from its natural state. It’s often more convenient and less expensive.
“Processed foods have often have been treated with additives – substances that add color, enhance flavor or increase shelf life, for example,” says dietitian Kate Patton. “Additives are not necessarily bad. Most foods require them to prevent spoilage and maintain their nutritional value.”
In fact, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved thousands of food additives.
Consuming small amounts of additives may be safe, but the health risks add up if you rely heavily on processed foods. A diet rich in processed foods is linked to chronic diseases such as obesity, high blood pressure, heart disease and cancer.
To be safe, it’s wise to choose foods that are in their natural state and color. The best way to eat healthy is to:
“Follow these tips to enjoy food that is not only more nutritious but also fresher and more naturally flavorful,” Patton says.
Learn more about our editorial process.
These typically colorful plant-based substances provide various health benefits that help protect you from disease
When it comes to getting proper nutrition, your assigned sex can play a role — but there’s more to it than that
This unique-looking veggie is fiber-dense and antioxidant-rich, and can improve the health of your gut, liver and heart
This herb offers different potential benefits from the basil you find in pesto
Be sure to check the labels of common foods like canned tuna, bread, hot dogs and chocolate
These naturally occurring chemicals may cause health issues when added to some foods
A low-FODMAP elimination diet can help identify your symptoms
Polyphenols come from natural foods with vibrant colors, like berries and turmeric
Your metabolism may torch 1,300 to 2,000 calories daily with no activity
A gentle touch in all the right places may help drain your sinuses
Pump up your iron intake with foods like tuna, tofu and turkey