We all strive to maintain good health and care for our bodies, but the journey to achieving this goal is often filled with hidden challenges. A recent study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in 2023 revealed that a staggering 60% of the food consumed by Americans contains various technical food additives, preservatives, flavoring agents, and artificial sweeteners. Moreover, the study highlighted a concerning trend – the number of additives in food and beverage products has been steadily increasing over the years. In 2001, the average number of additives was 3.7, but by 2019, it had risen to 4.5.

This issue is not unique to the United States alone. A study published in Scientific Reports in 2020 found that in France, over 50% of food products contained at least one additive, with more than 11% containing five or more additives. In total, a staggering 85% of food items, ranging from artificially sweetened beverages to baked goods and ice cream, contained some form of additive. As consumers, it is crucial to be aware of what is hidden in the food we consume.

Artificial Sweeteners

Sugary snacks and beverages are ubiquitous in our modern diet, but many of these products are laden with sugar substitutes that can have detrimental effects on our health. A study published in Nature in 2014 revealed that mice fed with sweeteners such as saccharin, aspartame, and sucralose experienced alterations in intestinal bacteria and glucose intolerance. Glucose intolerance is a potential precursor to type 2 diabetes, and human subjects in the study exhibited similar outcomes. Additionally, aspartame has been associated with a myriad of health issues, including skin problems, early menstruation, mood swings, and liver damage.

Stephanie Olton, a holistic nutritionist and wellness guide, warns about the negative impact of artificial sweeteners on the body. She explains that these sweeteners provide sweetness without any energy for the body, leading to increased appetite. Furthermore, they can trigger inflammation, disrupting the body’s balance and potentially causing disease. Aspartame, in particular, has been linked to liver cancers, dermatitis, early menstruation, and mood disorders.

Food Dye Red 40

Red 40, a commonly used food dye approved for human consumption by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, is just one of nine food dyes available. This dye is added to a wide range of products, including cookies, cake frosting, and soft drinks, to give them vibrant colors. However, the visual appeal of these products may come at a cost. A report published in 2021 highlighted the potential risks associated with Red 40 and other food dyes.