As a health coach, I often hear people express their desire to eat healthier, and rightfully so! The grocery store aisles are filled with products marketed as “natural,” “organic,” or “healthy.” However, the reality can be more complex than the labels suggest. Today, I want to shed light on some common ingredients that can undermine our health goals: glyphosate, seed oils, natural flavors, and artificial colorings.
Glyphosate is a widely used herbicide that’s often found in conventionally grown foods. It’s primarily used in the agricultural process, especially with genetically modified crops. Studies suggest that glyphosate may disrupt gut health, contribute to inflammation, and even be linked to certain cancers. When you’re shopping for food, it’s essential to look for organic produce and products, as they are less likely to contain glyphosate. Remember, just because a food item is labeled “healthy” doesn’t mean it’s free from harmful chemicals.
Seed oils, such as canola, soybean, and corn oil, are often touted as healthy alternatives to traditional fats. However, these oils are highly processed and can contain unhealthy omega-6 fatty acids, which may promote inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation is linked to numerous health issues, including heart disease and obesity. Instead, consider opting for healthier fats like olive oil, coconut oil, avocado oil, butter, beef tallow, or ghee which can support your overall health.
“Natural flavors” is a term you’ll frequently see on ingredient lists, but it can be misleading. While it sounds wholesome, the reality is that natural flavors can be derived from a variety of sources, including processed chemicals. The food industry is not required to disclose the exact composition of natural flavors, making it hard for consumers to know what they are truly consuming. If you’re striving for a clean diet, look for whole, unprocessed foods and try to steer clear of items with vague ingredient descriptions.
Artificial colorings are often used in food products to enhance visual appeal, but they come with their own set of concerns. Many artificial dyes have been linked to hyperactivity in children and may pose other health risks. While it’s easy to be drawn in by a brightly colored snack, prioritizing whole foods with natural colors—like fruits and vegetables—will provide you with not only better nutrition but also fewer potential harmful additives.
Understanding these hidden pitfalls can help you make more informed choices at the grocery store. Here are some tips to navigate the aisles:
Shop Organic: Whenever possible, choose organic produce and products to reduce exposure to glyphosate and other harmful pesticides.
Read Labels Carefully: Look beyond the front of the package and check ingredient lists for seed oils, natural flavors, and artificial colorings.
Prioritize Whole Foods: Focus on fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. These foods are less likely to contain harmful additives.
Cook at Home: Preparing meals from scratch allows you to control the ingredients and avoid processed foods that often contain these hidden dangers.
Educate Yourself: Stay informed about food ingredients and trends. Knowledge is power when it comes to making healthful choices.
Navigating the grocery store can feel overwhelming, especially with the abundance of products claiming to be healthy. By being aware of the hidden ingredients like glyphosate, seed oils, natural flavors, and artificial colorings, you can take a proactive approach to your health. Remember, what’s on your plate matters, so choose wisely! Your body will thank you for it.
Join us this fall for our 6-week challenge as we tackle the holidays with more mindfulness and control. This does NOT mean you give us your favorite foods or traditions. Click here to link more!