Avoid foods with unpronounceable ingredients from "summary" of In Defense of Food by Michael Pollan
When you pick up a packaged food at the supermarket and the ingredient list reads like a chemistry experiment, it's a sign that you should probably put it back on the shelf. If you can't pronounce half the ingredients, chances are your body won't know what to do with them either. These unpronounceable ingredients are often artificial additives, preservatives, colorings, and flavorings that have no place in a healthy diet. They are created in laboratories, not kitchens, and are added to processed foods to extend their shelf life, enhance their appearance, or make them taste better.
Many of these additives have been linked to various health problems, including allergies, asthma, obesity, and cancer. Some studies even suggest that they may disrupt our hormones, interfere with our metabolism, and damage our gut microbiota. Despite these risks, the food industry continues to use these chemicals in a wide range of products, from breakfast cereals to salad dressings. This is because these additives are cheap, convenient, and effective at making processed foods more appealing to consumers.
The best way to avoid these harmful ingredients is to stick to whole, unprocessed foods that contain only one ingredient – the food itself. Fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, grains, and legumes are all examples of foods that are minimally processed and free of artificial additives. When you eat these foods, you can be confident that you are nourishing your body with the nutrients it needs to thrive. By focusing on real, whole foods, you can avoid the confusion and uncertainty that comes with trying to decipher long lists of chemical compounds on food labels.
In a world where processed foods are the norm, it can be challenging to make healthy choices. However, by following the simple rule of avoiding foods with unpronounceable ingredients, you can take control of your diet and your health. Remember, if you can't pronounce it, don't eat it. Your body will thank you for it.
