Did you know 90% of the typical American grocery bill is spend on processed foods? Processed foods are loaded with preservatives and additives that are, quite frankly, ruining our health. These “foods” - if you can call them food - have a longer shelf life due to the dozens of chemical additives. But at what cost?

Here is a “Top 5″ list of additives to avoid and why:

Food Dyes

Many moms have already made the connection between food dyes and rambunctious children. Studies have proven these food dyes to a reduction in IQ and even cancer.

Red Dye #3 (E124) was banned in 1990. However it is still allowed to be used until supplies run out. Red #40 is the new dye on the block that causes as many problems as the others did - thyroid cancer and brain-nerve interference. Used to dye maraschino cherries and even used in cosmetics.

Yellow #6 (E110), Yellow Tartrazine (E102) were banned in Sweden and Norway. Even though they cause tumors on kidneys and adrenals, the US has not yet banned them. After all, macaroni and cheese mixes, American cheese, and even lemonade use these dyes - who would buy them if they weren’t yellow?

Blue #1, Blue #2 is found in candy, sodas, and even dog food. Banned in Norway, Finland and France due to the chromosomal damage they can cause.

High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS)

You knew this was going to be added to the list. Found in so many processed foods, it’s almost impossible to avoid. Did you know HFCS is the #1 source of calories in the US? Scary. No wonder diabetes is on the rise.

Aspartame

HFCS isn’t the only culprit. Aspartame (NutraSweet and Equal) is the sweetener you are consuming when the label says “sugar free” or anything “diet” - and even in some toothpastes and vitamins.

However, aspartame has reported adverse reactions ranging from dizziness to migraines to full-blown seizures - and is likely carcinogenic.

Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)

MSG is found in nearly all Chinese food, and most seasonings and snacks. It’s nearly as common as HFCS and has many alternative names. (Read: Ingredients that Contain Hidden MSG). MSG enhances flavor due to it being an excitotoxin. Excitotoxins over-excite cells to the point of damage - or worse, death.

Adverse reactions that can result from consuming MSG: depression, fatigue, eye damage, and disorientation. MSG can also cause obesity due to its ability to effect neurological pathways of the brain including it’s “I’ve had enough food” function.

Sodium Nitrate/Nitrite

Linked to cancer in study after study, it’s best to avoid cured meats or anything smoked due to them containing sodium nitrate. Unfortunately, it’s difficult to find bacon and hot dogs without sodium nitrate unless you go organic. I’ve found Beyond Organic hot dogs to be absolutely delicious and sodium nitrate-free! In fact I’ve never tasted a better hot dog (and I know my hot dogs!) which goes to prove you don’t need chemicals for things to taste great.

photo source

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Top 20 Additives to Avoid
Tips for Avoiding MSG
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Lea Harris founded Nourishing Treasures in 2006. A mom passionate about her family's health and well-being, Lea believes education is power. Encouraging others to take baby steps in the right direction of health for their families, Lea's goal is to raise awareness of what goes into our mouths and on our bodies, providing natural alternative information that promotes health and prevents disease by using traditional foods and nature's medicine. Lea is a Certified Health Coach graduate from Beyond Organic University, and a Certified Aromatherapist graduate from Aromahead Institute. "Like" Nourishing Treasures on Facebook, join the Nourishing Treasures Group on Facebook, follow @NourishTreasure on Twitter, and subscribe to our newsletter. You can also find me on Learning About Essential Oils forum, and Fido Fermentation Facebook group. Disclaimer: I use affiliate links wherever possible. So if you click on a link, and make a purchase, I might make a small commission, but it doesn't cost you any more.