While many of us have a sense of what foods are good for us, it can be helpful to be reminded what foods, or food products, are harmful, and why. The doctors at Midway Chiropractic are valuable resources on holistic healthcare, including nutrition. If you have questions, or would welcome guidance, please ask at your next appointment.

In the mean time, Dr. Mercola’s site is a wealth of information, including this list of Nine Unhealthy Foods to Avoid. Also see the infographic embedded below, 10 Banned Foods that Every American Should Stop Eating, which details foods that are allowed in the United States but banned in other countries “due to harmful additives, growth promoters, genetically engineered ingredients, or other dangerous practices.”

The Avoid List includes:

Artificial Sweeteners, whose dangers were recently described in this article on the Midway Chiropractic blog. These products can also stimulate appetite and fat storage, causing weight gain. Studies that indicate these products are not harmful based on animal studies utilize “a flawed model, as animals have this protective mechanism while humans do not, so the results do not fully apply to people.”

Vegetable Oils, which are highly processed and which “distort the important omega-6 to omega-3 ratio.” Alternatively, stick to coconut oil, which is not susceptible to heat damage. If you’re not yet familiar with the many wonders of coconut oil, see this helpful list.

Canned Tomatoes, due to the Bisphenol-A (BPA) lining. This hazardous chemical can be best avoided by using fresh or frozen produce, preserving fruits and vegetables, or buying store brands that are stored in glass. The Breast Cancer Fund offers these Tips for Avoiding BPA in Canned Food.

Click through to the list for details as to why margarine should be avoided. Alternatives include coconut oil and raw milk butter, which has been shown to be rich in compounds known to fight cancer and diabetes.

Processed Meats, due to growth hormones and antibiotic drugs given to animals from which processed meat is typically made. Plus, processed meats increase your risk of cancer and contain dyes, chemical flavorings, and sodium nitrite. Fresh meats that are organically raised and grass-fed or pastured, or wild caught salmon, are better options for meat-based protein.

Microwave Popcorn. The bags are lined with dangerous compounds which transfers to the popcorn with heat, and which have been shown to disrupt endocrine and sex hormones in humans. The EPA has recognized that this compound “poses developmental and reproductive risks to humans.”

Table Salt contains unnecessary and harmful chemicals while the beneficial minerals have been removed. Replace table salt with Himalayan salt or other natural salts that contain trace minerals.

Soy Protein Isolate and Other Unfermented Soy Products. The only healthful soy is organic that has been properly fermented. Unfermented and non-organic soy have been linked to a variety of health and developmental problems, including autism, “malnutrition, digestive distress, immune-system breakdown, thyroid dysfunction, cognitive decline, reproductive disorders and infertility—even cancer and heart disease.”

Non-Organic Potatoes and Other Fresh Produce Known for High Pesticide Contamination. If possible, buy or grow organic fruits and vegetables. When this isn’t possible, educate yourself on the differing pesticide loads in different foods. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) puts together a list annually of the “Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen,” which describes which dozen foods should be purchased organically, and the 15 conventionally-grown produce species which don’t carry as many pesticides.

Additionally, be sure to check out this infographic of food products that are banned by other countries but allowed in the United States:

10 Banned Foods that Every American Should Stop Eating.

 

As always, please ask your doctor with any questions or clarifications during your next visit!

 

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