Tips for Cutting Out Processed Foods

If you‘ve been looking at anything about health and diet in the last 30 - 40 years, then 
you’ve probably heard repeatedly that processed food should only be eaten in strict 
moderation. This is because researchers have studied the effects of these foods on the 
body, and their conclusion have raised a lot of concerns among health professionals. 
This information moves many to avoid these foods, so if you are in line with that 
thinking, the next few paragraphs will discuss tips for cutting out processed foods. 


Where to Start First 

If you’re anything like most people, reading the ingredient list on many of the 
prepackaged bags of chips, and individually wrapped burritos and sandwiches sold in 
stores can be baffling. As your eyes trace the indecipherably long names of chemicals, 
you probably feel some sort of apprehension, and it turns out that is right mindset. One 
simple piece of advice that you can always follow, is to avoid anything that is difficult to 
pronounce, or looks completely unfamiliar to you. That will keep you from ingesting 
anything with harsh preservatives. That’s not to say that it is all terrible, but that will give 
you somewhat of a buffer. 


Try Some Healthy Brands

While you are learning to create your own sauces and condiments for your food, you 
can try some healthier versions of the condiments you normally use. They are slowly 
becoming more common, but you can always find them at specialty stores. Once you’re 
used to the idea of making your own, you’ll be able to compare your version with the 
ones you’ve tried. 


Foods to Help You Create

Coconut oil

Coconut oil is extremely versatile. You can use it to add coconut flavor to foods and 
baked goods, you can use it to lightly fry veggies and give them a beautiful, fragrant 
smell and taste.  
It’s great for tea, smoothies, and can be a great addition to mellow out an intense 
sauce. 

Specialty Cut Veggies (As noodle replacement)

Who would pass on some fun cuts of tasty vegetables? If you have a food processor or 
a special cutting device that can make pasta shapes out of vegetables, then you have a 
huge list of great foods that you can make. When you feel like you want some pasta but 
veggies are a better idea, then you can get something going with these.  

Greek yogurt

Yogurt like this is great for all kinds of projects. You can use it to make everything from 
salad dressings, to sweet treats. Greek yogurt is also awesome on anything bready and 
savory. 


Potatoes and Squash

These great ground treasures have such a massive role in food all over the world. 
Potatoes can be prepared in a variety of ways. Baked, lightly fired, or mashed, and 
squash makes a great base for soup and other innovative ideas. 
