Everyone knows to keep an eye out for calories, fats, and carbs but paying attention to the ingredients in the food you buy is just as important. These 5 ingredients should be avoided next time you go grocery shopping! I always try to aim for minimally processed and organic foods. The less ingredients on the label, the better haha. 

High Fructose Corn Syrup: This is a sweetener made from corn. It’s usually found in soda, candy, juice, cereal, and snacks. A large amount of high fructose corn syrup is linked to weight gain and even diabetes. It can trigger inflammation and play a role in chronic conditions. Try and skip any snacks or foods that contain this ingredient. Try foods without added sugar and you can sweeten them up with stevia or fruit. 

MSG: This can go by many names but most know it as MSG. It can be found in canned soup, diet drinks, and a ton of fast food. More than 40 forms of this additive can be found in grocery store aisles. It’s used to enhance the flavor in many processed foods. Next time you check your ingredient label look out for: monosodium glutamate, maltodextrin, sodium caseinate, autolyzed yeast, autolyzed vegetable protein, hydrolyzed vegetable protein, yeast extract, and even citric acid.

Artificial Sweeteners: These are used in a ton of diet foods to keep sweetness but keep the calories down. They usually are listed as: aspartame, sucralose, saccharin, and acesulfame potassium. Because they are processed they can be harder on our body than plain old sugar. Artificial sweeteners can trick your brain into forgetting that sweetness means extra calories, so they can do more harm than good. 

Hydrogenated Oil: This ingredient equals trans fats. It is known to clog arteries and cause obesity. Manufacturers like it because it reduces costs, increases shelf life, and stabilizes flavor. Trans fats are twice as difficult for the body to dissolve as saturated fats. Opt for olive, peanut, and canola oils.

XO

Joie