We are inundated with the message to avoid processed food, but what does that mean? It obviously refers to fake food-like substances such as chips and soda, but what else? Here are some things to watch out for.
Sweeteners. Any sweetener that has been dried, powdered, and packaged is processed. Stevia, for example, starts out as a plant that looks like this. By the time we buy a packet of Truvia or a clear liquid Stevia tincture, it’s processed. Does this mean it’s unsafe? Not in small quantities. But if you’re mindful of portions and don’t have blood sugar issues, you might as well use a whole food sweetener like honey or maple syrup. These hit your blood stream the same way as white sugar would, but they have other nutritive properties, and you’re better off enjoying moderate amounts of real food.
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