The Deal About Processed Foods

What are Processed Foods
Manufacturers usually put extra chemicals into the foods that they sell in order to keep the food lasting longer. During processing, food tends to lose its natural flavors so companies use all types of chemicals in order to get the original flavor back into the food to sell.

Why Processed Foods are Unhealthy
Many processed foods contain little to no nutritional value. The body goes into hunger mode without the needed nutrients to preserve calories. The results is added body weight in the form of fat.

How to Eliminate Processed Foods From Your Diet

Tip 1 - Avoid Packaging
Avoid purchasing foods that are in bottles, boxes and cans. Many of these types of foods have added chemicals and ingredients that are unhealthy. Fresh foods are a much better and healthy alternative.

Tip 2 - Shop Smart
When entering a grocery store, make your first stop at the fresh fruit and vegetable aisles. Try to find everything that you need there, only then go to the processed foods aisles.

Tip 3 - Save Money
Since fresh foods are more expensive, cut down on other expenses in your life or save money for grocery trips.

Tip 4 - Avoid Packaged Meals
The meals that are already premade and frozen are not good for you. These unhealthy meals have tons of calories and no nutritional value.

Tip 5 - Cook at Home
Avoid going out to eat and cook homemade meals. This way, you know exactly what is put into your food.

Tip 6 - Increase Protein Intake
Increasing the amount of proteins you eat, such as lean meats, eggs and tofu, can benefit you in many ways. Proteins help to suppress your diet, therefore helping you to stay healthy and fit.

Tip 7 - Prepare Ahead
Many individuals go out to eat or eat processed foods in a easy to cook box or can because they are tired or don't feel like cooking. Avoid this by preparing meals ahead of time. This will help to have meals available for anytime you may need them. Simply freeze the prepared meals and then heat for a meal later.

Tip 8 - Skip Processed Beverages
Foods are not the only unhealthy processed item out there, beverages such as sodas, sports drinks and ice teas are also processed and can be bad for you. Even natural juices from concentrate have added sugar. Consider drinking filtered water instead. Many don't get enough water anyways and it can help to keep you in shape.

Tip 9 - Avoid Artificial Sweeteners
Artificial sweeteners are designed to taste like real sugar but can be terrible for your health. If you need to eat these, enjoy in moderation.

Tip 10 - Choices
If you choose to eat processed foods, purchase sugar free or low calorie foods. Avoid products that have aspartame or sucralose listed on the ingredients.