Shopping processed food: 8 Common food additives you should avoid 01.02.2016

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Modern man is continually getting used to processed foods, to the extent we hardly go few days without taking some. Studies show that most processed foods contain some additives that have serious negative effects in the body if they accumulate. Since it is almost impossible to do without processed foods, we have listed the common food additives to check on the ingredients list on your packed food label before purchasing. Check them out next!

1. Potassium Bromate

This is common additive that increases volume of rolls, white flour, and breads, studies show that it causes cancer in humans and other animals. However small the amount may be, it is likely to cause health complications in humans.

2. Artificial sweeteners

There are various types of artificial sweeteners including Acesulfame-K and Aspartame, (E951).
Acesulfame-K is common additive found in gelatin, sugar free sodas, baking goods, toothpaste and other products that can be found in everyone’s shopping list. It has been linked to kidney tumors.
Aspartame, (E951), also called Equal and Nutrasweet is common additive to foods labeled “sugar free” or diet. It is a carcinogen and neurotoxin, and its components cause diabetes, seizures, brain tumor and other ailments.

3. Sulfur Dioxide (E220)

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It is commonly found in potato products, beer, juices vinegar and other foods. Other than destroying vitamins B1 and E, it causes adverse reaction including hypotension and anaphylactic shock.

4. Common Food Dyes

There are various types of artificial colorings commonly found in salad dressings, fruit juices, soda and other foods. Studies have linked them to reduction in IQ and cancer. Common ones to avoid include Blue#1, Blue#2, Yellow Tartrazine, Red#40/Red dye #3 and Yellow#6.

5. High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS)

HFCS is an artificial sweetener found in a large percentage of foods including candy, canned vegetables, cereals and processed foods. Its effects include weight gain, tissues damage, and increase in levels of bad cholesterol.

6. Sodium Sulfite (E221)

E221 is common preservative added to dried fruit and wine. Studies by FDA show that sulfites, which are key ingredient in E221, are a common cause for asthma. Mild reaction to sulfite E221 results in rashes, breathing issues and headaches. Severe reaction may close the airway completely resulting in death.

7. Trans Fat

This additive is used in fast foods, margarine, baked goods, chips and other types of food to extend shelf life. It is linked to increase in bad cholesterol, hearth disease, diabetes, stroke and other health issues.

8. Monosodium Glutamate (E621/MSG)

This is a type of amino acid known to overexcite cells in such a way they may become damaged or die. E621 is common flavor enhancer in variety of restaurant foods, chips, soups and other foods. If consumed regularly it may cause eye damage, obesity, depression, headaches, and disorientation.