Is Ultra Processed Food Secretly Controlling Your Appetite?
/BY MADELEINE INIGUEZ
Ultra-processed foods are made to be highly tempting and easy to overeat, but you can take simple steps to avoid overconsumption. Here are some key strategies to help:
1. Read List of Ingredients — Whole ingredients that are simple should be prioritized first. If a food has unfamiliar ingredients, it is likely ultra processed with artificial flavors, preservatives, emulsifiers, etc.
2. Limit Convenience Foods — Ultra-processed foods are typically created for convenience and fast consumption. Rather than depending on packaged snacks, consider prepping whole-food options ahead of time.
3. Watch Out for Misleading Marketing — Terms like “low fat,” “high protein,” or “natural” can be deceptive and do not always mean a product is healthy. Instead of trusting the front of package claims, check the ingredient list to know what you’re really eating.
4. Cook More at Home — Cooking at home allows you to control the ingredients and rely less on processed convenience foods.
5. Focus on Protein and Fiber Eating — Beans, lean meats, eggs, nuts, and whole grains helps keep you fuller for longer, making you less likely to crave processed snacks.
6. Limit Access to Junk Food — Keeping ultra processed foods at home increases the chances of eating them. Instead, fill your kitchen with healthier choices to avoid temptation when cravings hit.
7. Hydration Plays a Key Role — Sometimes, thirst is mistaken for hunger. Staying hydrated and drinking water before meals can help prevent unnecessary snacking.
Madeleine Iniguez is associate editor at The Whole Earth Digest, a blog dedicated to healthy smiles, healthy bodies, and healthy living. Email her at hello@drcajee.com.
DID YOU KNOW...? Processed foods typically lack important nutrients, so they don’t help keep your teeth strong? Unlike whole foods such as vegetables and dairy, which are packed with the vitamins and minerals needed for healthy teeth, processed foods can leave your teeth more prone to damage.
DID YOU KNOW...? Ultra-processed foods with added sugars can make your teeth more prone to plaque. Plaque builds up on your teeth and can harden into tartar, which only a dentist can remove!
Breaking the habit of overeating ultra-processed foods may be challenging, but with mindful choices, you can take control of your diet. By keeping these facts in mind, you can protect your teeth and your overall health from the harmful effects of ultra-processed foods!
