You might be eating too much processed food

A longer shelf life and cheaper price can make processed foods a convenient option at the grocery store, but how do they affect your health?

A recent study published in the journal Cell Metabolism suggests that highly processed foods like breakfast cereal or sugary yogurt cause a rise in your hunger hormones. In the study, people who ate a more processed diet ate more calories — as many as 500 more per day.

“There is extra sugar, fat, additives (both natural and artificial), sodium and carbs that do not contain nutrients that fill us up like fiber and protein,” says Barbara Fine, a registered dietitian at Advocate Children’s Hospital in Oak Lawn. “The added sugar and fat makes us eat more because they can have a strong flavor without filling us up. Eating sugar makes us crave and eat more sugar. The same goes for fat.”

Fine suggests staying away from sugar, sodium and trans fats in packaged foods. She suggests substituting fruits vegetables, raw nuts or seeds and whole grains for healthier snacking.

“If something is prepared from scratch with real ingredients, it is going to be superior to any food that is packaged,” says Fine. “Make your own granola bars instead of buying them.”

That can be hard for people on the go. Fine also suggests planning ahead.

“This includes meal planning for the week and going to the grocery store with a list,” she says. “You can find easy recipes online. Shop the perimeter of the grocery store, which includes the produce section, dairy, meats, fish, eggs and poultry.”

Are you trying to watch your weight? Take a free, quick online risk assessment to learn more about your health weight by clicking here.