Food additives are chemicals used to keep food fresh and enhance its flavor, texture, and appearance. They can be found in various processed food products and beverages. In fact, some people are sensitive to these additives and may even suffer from adverse reactions like hives and diarrhea. Eating food with certain additives in high amounts may even damage your heart. Some additives have also been found to disrupt hormone balance and can even diminish fertility. Studies have also found that some additives can cause irritability, fatigue, and insomnia. With so many of these alarming negative effects, it is best to know the ingredients of what you put in your mouth.
To help you out, here are some of the most common food additives that you should watch out for in your food and drinks today.
Artificial Sweeteners
Artificial sweeteners are food additives that provide a sweet taste to your food and beverages with less food energy, as compared to sugar-based sweeteners. Because of this, they are used in low-calorie and sugar-free products. However, a study has found that weight gain and obesity are significantly greater in men and women who drink diet beverages with artificial sweeteners. Another study has even noted an increase in body mass index and increased body fat percentage among adolescents who drink artificially sweetened beverages. So the next time you pop a diet soda, think again.
High Fructose Corn Syrup
Artificial sugar made from corn syrup is called high fructose corn syrup. The American Heart Association recommends only consuming 6 to 9 spoons of added sugars in your daily diet. However, most sodas containing high fructose corn syrup contain a whopping 16 spoonful of high fructose syrup. This is alarming as fructose in large amounts can put your health at huge risks. It can also cause fatty liver disease, diabetes, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, and many more serious health issues. Despite not containing any essential nutrients, it promotes weight gain and obesity.
Trans Fat
Did you know that your body actually needs fat? Dietary fats help your body absorb some nutrients, provide your body with energy, and support cell growth. They are also an important ingredient in various food products like ice cream. As naturally saturated fats are more expensive, trans fat is used commercially in the food production industry. However, there is no health benefit that comes with consuming trans fat. In fact, it is recognized as one of the most dangerous food additives. Because of this, opting for products with naturally saturated fat is essential for a balanced and healthy diet. Products that have high doses of saturated fat include full-fat dairy products like cream and butter, dark chocolate, fatty meats, and lard. On the other hand, consuming products with high levels of trans fat will lead to cardiac arrest, stroke, coronary heart disease, and other health issues. When grocery shopping, make sure to only buy products that have 0.5 to none trans fat content for your own safety.
Xanthan Gum
Xanthan gum is used as a thickening and stabilizing agent mostly found in salad dressings, soups, sauces, and syrups. However, exceeding the suggested serving suggestion of this food additive can cause a lot of negative side effects on your health. It can cause flatulence, bloating, increased frequency of bowel movements, altered gut bacteria, increased stool output, softer stools, and other digestive problems. If you have extreme wheat, soy, corn, or dairy allergies, avoid food and drinks with xanthan gum as much as possible. People with low blood sugar levels should avoid consuming xanthan gum in large doses.
Potassium Bromate
Potassium bromate is a food additive used in bread making to strengthen the dough and allow it to rise higher and look whiter. However, research has shown that it can possibly cause cancer among humans. Some countries have even banned potassium bromate because of its potential carcinogenic properties. It can also cause headaches, irritability, impaired thinking, and personality changes if a person is repeatedly exposed to such additives.
Sodium Nitrite
Sodium nitrite is a food additive that extends the shelf life of processed meat products. It also gives cured meat products like hotdogs, corned beef, and ham their distinct pink or red color and flavor. Excessive consumption of this food additive can increase your heart disease and cancer risk. A serious respiratory condition is also noted in infants with high levels of sodium nitrite consumption.
There are several food additives that can be found in the food and drinks we consume daily. Excessive consumption of these food additives can lead to serious health problems. To avoid the risks, it is best to check the label of what you eat at all times. Going for healthier alternatives and minimizing consumption is highly recommended.