Food Pollution: The Hidden Truth about Processed Foods

Defining Real

When we talk about "real food vs. processed food," it's easy to get confused. We're not referring to freshly baked bread or neatly packaged goods. We mean food in its most natural state: fresh produce, meat, nuts, legumes, and beans[1]. Modern life has us reaching for convenience — processed foods. But behind their health-promising labels lies a stark reality. Have you noticed how our health and physique as a population have changed drastically in the past few decades? Welcome to the era of "food pollution."

Evolutionary Adaptation

Over millions of years, humans evolved, consuming nutrient-dense foods rich in natural fibers, proteins, and fats[2]. But with modernity, we've introduced "food pollution" into our lives. Processed foods are often packed with additives, artificial flavors, and unhealthy oils, which can negatively impact our health and lead to obesity, diabetes, and heart disease[3].

Bans & Regulations

The world is waking up to the health risks of processed foods. France, for instance, has banned several food additives, recognizing their potential health risks[4]. The UK now uses a traffic light labeling system to alert consumers about high levels of fat, sugar, and salt[5]. It's time for the FDA in the United States to take decisive actions.

The Oil Deception

Even seemingly healthy choices like vegetable oils — soybean, corn, canola, sunflower, and safflower — pose risks. Highly processed and containing unstable fats, these oils can degrade food's nutritional properties[6]. Countries like Denmark have restricted the use of these oils, citing their health risks[7].

Returning to Real

Transitioning back to real foods needn't be intimidating. Begin with small steps like reading labels and choosing products with fewer recognizable ingredients. Swap out processed snacks for fresh fruits, nuts, and full-fat, plain yogurt. Gradually make whole foods the center of your meals. Remember, progress over perfection. For instance, instead of reaching for a bag of chips, you could have a handful of almonds or apple slices. Or, try making Ovvia's Recipes- they're a delicious, easy, and nutrition-packed alternative to processed meals!

The Takeaway

We are what we eat. By aligning our diets with our evolutionary history — real, minimally processed foods — we can retake control of our well-being.

Your Well-being, Our Priority

Ovvia® Wellness is your partner on this healthy journey. With a $5 per month subscription, get access to our online recipe book, resources, and enlightening videos. For a more inclusive experience, join as a Member to receive expert nutritional advice, access the complete video library, and be part of our supportive community! Together, let's rediscover the power of real food!

© 2023 Ovvia® LLC. All rights reserved.

References:

1. Monteiro, C.A., et al. (2018). The UN Decade of Nutrition, the NOVA food classification, and the trouble with ultra-processing. Public Health Nutrition.
2. Lieberman, D.E. (2013). The Story of the Human Body: Evolution, Health, and Disease. Pantheon Books.
3. Zinöcker, M.K., and Lindseth, I.A. (2020). The Western Diet-Microbiome-Host Interaction and Its Role in Metabolic Disease. Nutrients.
4. ANSES (French Agency for Food, Environmental, and Occupational Health & Safety). (2017). Food additives: ANSES assesses the risks.
5. UK Government. (2013). Front-of-pack nutrition labeling: guidance.
6. Simopoulos, A.P. (2006). Evolutionary aspects of diet, the omega-6/omega-3 ratio and genetic variation: nutritional implications for chronic diseases. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy.
7. Danish Veterinary and Food Administration. (2013). Trans fatty acids in the nutrition recommendation.