What are the health benefits of a diet low in artificial additives?
This comprehensive guide will show you the benefits to your health of eating a low-additive diet. In my role as a nutritionist and dietician, I am often asked what the benefits are of eliminating or reducing artificial additives in our diets. This article will discuss the benefits of this diet, how to start, some examples, as well as additional information that may be useful. Now let's get started.
What is the Importance Of A Low Artificial Additives Diet
It is important to eat a diet that does not contain artificial additives, as these substances are linked with various health issues. The American Heart Association states that trans fats, among other artificial additives, can increase LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) and decrease HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol), increasing heart disease risk.
A 2019 JAMA Internal Medicine study found that consuming ultra-processed food (which contains artificial additives), was associated with a greater risk of death. Reduced artificial additives can improve your health overall and increase your longevity.
How to Start a Diet with Low Additives
Start by carefully reading the labels of foods. Avoid foods that contain artificial flavors, colors, sweeteners and preservatives. Opt for unprocessed, whole foods that are free of these additives.
Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health research suggests that cooking more at home can help reduce your exposure to the harmful chemicals in processed food. Learning to cook simple and wholesome food at home is a good place to start.
Example of the Benefits of a Low Additive Diet
- Improvement in digestive health. Artificial additives disrupt the gut bacteria and can lead to digestive problems. These additives can disrupt gut bacteria, leading to digestive issues.
- Increased heart health. As we have already mentioned, trans fats and other additives such as these can increase bad cholesterol. These additives can improve heart health by eliminating them.
- Artificial sweeteners reduce obesity risk: According to a study published in "Pediatrics", artificial sweeteners are linked with increased weight and waist circumference among children and adolescents.
- Reduced risk of Type 2 Diabetes: A study published in BMJ concluded that artificially sweetened drinks are associated with an elevated risk of diabetes type 2.
- Mental health improved: According to some studies , artificial colors in food may worsen symptoms of children suffering from attention deficit hyperactivity (ADHD).
Other Tips on a Low Additive Diet
Organic foods are generally less likely to have artificial additives. Drinking plenty of water in place of artificially-sweetened drinks and sugary beverages will also help you reduce the intake of additives. Don't forget about regular exercise as this complements a healthy diet.
Conclusion
A diet that is low in artificial ingredients can have many health benefits. These include improved digestive and heart health, decreased risk of type 2 diabetes and obesity, as well as better mental health. This is not about eliminating certain foods, but about adopting a healthy lifestyle that emphasizes the importance of whole foods and nutritious food for long-term wellbeing. Every small step you take towards your goal will have an impact on the overall state of your health.
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