All preservatives are not harmful to your health. Most food additives are designed to improve food safety and have been authorized by health officials to be used in this manner. Food preservation has been in practice for centuries. Smoke, salt and vinegar have all been added to foods in the past to retard or limit the growth of food contaminates. Without preservatives, much of our food could not be safely consumed. Although food additives must meet strict health regulations, certain additives do pose a cause for concern. Individuals with allergies, in particular, should be very cautious about the amount and type of food preservatives they consume on a daily basis.
Avoid Artificial Colors
Some foods look appealing because of their bright colors. These bright, artificial colors may cause cancer. The following artificial food colorings should be avoided: blue #1, blue #2, blue #3, green #3, red #3, and yellow #6. Cochineal and carmine are artificial colorings derived from pulverized insects. They also should be avoided as they have caused allergic reactions in some individuals.
Reconsider the Use of Artificial Sweeteners
Aspartame and saccharin are sugar substitutes that were both discovered by accident in the science labaratory. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Aspartame accounts for more than 75% of the reported adverse reactions to food additives. High doses of saccharin have been connected with bladder cancer. Other artificial sweeneters include cyclamate, acesulfame, sucralose (Splenda) and sorbitol.
Beware of Aluminum Compounds
Large amounts of aluminum (consumed through canned soft drinks, aluminum pots and pans, aluminum foil, prepared foods and consumer drugs such as aspirin and antacids) have an adverse effect on brain cells. Traces of aluminum compounds have been found in the brain cells of Alzheimer's patients.
Warning about MSG
Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is used in food as a flavor enhancer. Some food companies even use it to mask unpleasant tastes in their products. Consuming MSG can cause nausea, headache, and breathing difficulties. Asthmatics have reported a tightening in the chest after eating this additive. Negative effects from the consumption of MSG can be immediate or delayed.
Beware of Nitrites and Nitrates
Sodium nitrate and sodium nitrite are preservatives found in processed meats (smoked fish, hot dogs and luncheon meats). These additives create a chemical called nitrosamines when heated. Nitrosamines can cause cancer.
Negative Effects of BHT and BHA
BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) is an antioxidant used in petroleum products, plastics, personal care products and food. BHT and BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole) are both used to slow down deterioration in oils. These chemical additives may cause allergic reactions, dental disease, negative effects on liver and kidney and overall poor health. Check for the addition of these chemicals in pet food.
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