Processed Foods Have NO Nutrients...

"Living under conditions of modern life, it is important to bear in mind that preparation and refinement of food products either entirely eliminates or in part destroys the vital elements in the original materials." -- USDA (U.S. Dept of Agriculture)

Here it is, straight from the horse's mouth! The U.S. Dept. of Agriculture tell us pure and simple that processed foods contain little of their original nutrients and nutritional value. Bottom line: processed foods provide us with no health benefits.

Studies have linked a high sugar intake which all processed foods contain an abundance of, with increased risks of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and premature aging. Is this pure coincidence, or is the association real?

"Common table sugar represents about 20 to 25 percent of the daily caloric intake of the average American. This translates into the equivalent of half a pound a day and over 5 tons in a lifetime. In the early 1800's, the average sugar consumption was 12 pounds per person annually. This increased to 124 pounds in 1980 and to 152 pounds in 1997. It is estimated that 75 percent of all sugar we consume comes from processed food."

So now what do we do to get the vital nutrients that our mind and body need to keep us healthy and fit?

Eat greater amounts of fresh natural foods. And supplement your daily dietary intake with juices, omega-3 oils, grains, seeds, and vitamins to offset the nutritional deficit found in our foods. Cut BACK sharply on empty calories. Add more fish, fresh vegetables and fruit, whole grains, and natural juices. The goal is to become a healthy eater by making smarter choices in your daily food intake each day. When you incorporate this conscious decision-making into your routine, then you've made a "life-style" change and dieting becomes a non-issue because you're routinely eating healthy foods and nuturing your health. For some more great ideas about how to do this well, read this article:
Becoming a Good Eater -- Elizabeth Ward, MS, RD