Eating a balanced diet is essential for maintaining good health. However, certain ingredients, when consumed excessively, can pose health risks. In this article, Newfemme highlights six such substances that you should be cautious about.
1. Bisphenol A (BPA) and Similar Compounds
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical commonly found in plastic and metal food and beverage containers. It's important to handle this compound with care as it can leach into the food or drink stored in these containers. BPA is known to mimic estrogen, potentially disrupting hormone function and leading to health issues like insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and obesity.
Fortunately, most plastics and cans are now BPA-free. To minimize exposure, opt for glass and stainless steel containers instead of plastic ones for eating and drinking.
2. Artificial Trans Fats
Artificial trans fats are created by hydrogenating unsaturated oils, such as soybean and corn oil, turning them into solid fats. They're commonly found in processed foods like margarine, snacks, and packaged baked goods.
The consumption of trans fats can trigger inflammation and have adverse effects on heart health. In fact, the United States has completely banned their use since January 2020.
3. Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAH)
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are environmental pollutants originating from the combustion of organic materials. They can also be found in food, particularly in meats grilled or smoked at high temperatures. The process involves meat fat dripping onto a hot surface, producing PAHs that can permeate the meat.
PAH consumption is associated with an increased risk of breast, kidney, colon, and prostate cancer. While cooking methods like braising or slow cooking are safer, reducing smoke and promptly removing oil drips while grilling can cut PAH levels by up to 89%.
4. Coumarin in Cinnamon
Coumarin, a toxic compound, is found in certain types of cinnamon commonly sold in grocery stores. At high doses, coumarins have been linked to a greater risk of cancer and liver damage.
To avoid coumarin, seek out alternative types of cinnamon, such as Ceylon cinnamon or "true cinnamon," derived from the Cinnamomum verum plant.
5. Added Sugar
Added sugar, often considered "empty" calories, comes with a range of dangerous health effects. Excessive consumption of high-fructose sugars, like corn syrup, is associated with obesity, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, fatty liver disease, and even cancer.
Such sweet foods and drinks are not only highly processed but may also have addictive properties, making it challenging to control intake. To cut back on added sugars, limit your consumption of sweet treats.
6. Mercury in Fish
While fish is a healthy source of protein, specific deep-sea varieties may contain high levels of mercury. Mercury in fish results from pollutants moving up the marine food chain.
Plants in mercury-contaminated waters are eaten by smaller fish, which are, in turn, consumed by larger fish that humans later eat. Mercury is a neurotoxin, posing risks to brain and nerve health. Children, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers are particularly vulnerable, as it can affect fetal and infant brain and nervous system development.
Some fish, like king mackerel and swordfish, have very high mercury levels and should be avoided. However, it's still advisable to consume other types of fish, like salmon and catfish, for their health benefits.
In conclusion, it's important to limit your intake of processed foods, seed oils, processed meats, and added sugars. Remember that many of these foods are harmful only with regular or excessive consumption, so occasional indulgence is generally safe.
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Source:
Feller, M. (2022). 6 ‘Toxins’ in Food That Are Actually Concerning. Healthline. [online]. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/food-toxins-that-are-concerning