Wellness Update from Mrs. Whelan

Our guest columnist Brett reminds us of the importance of unprocessed foods in today's Wellness Update.

Focus on Whole Foods
by Brett Blumenthal

Consuming whole foods--unprocessed foods that don't contain preservatives, chemicals, fillers, artificial flavors or colors--is best for your health. A whole food can be eaten or cooked as you find it in nature. Foods that grow in the soil...on a tree...or come directly from animals, fish, or fowl...are whole foods. If, however, they are refined in a manufacturing plant or include additives (chemicals, preservatives, coloring or flavoring), they are not whole foods.  
Whole foods:

1. Are lower in calories. When comparing a whole food with its processed version, the whole version is often lower in calories. They come as nature made them without added fat, sugar, or sodium
2. Are more filling. Whole foods are satisfying because they are nutrient dense, while processed foods lose fiber and other nutrients that leave you wanting more.
3. Protect against disease.Whole foods contain vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, phenolics, fiber, and other phytochemicals, which help lower risk of diseases, including: cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. Yet, ingredients in processed foods can contribute to these diseases.  
4. Are pure. Whole foods don't contain harmful chemicals, preservatives, or additives, whereas many ingredients in processed foods can cause cancer, allergic reactions, and can interfere with the body's functions and metabolism.
5. Help decrease unhealthy fat consumption. Whole foods make it easier to avoid unhealthy fats (e.g., trans fats). These are often added to processed foods or are created during the cooking process of manufactured and fast foods.

More Info:

• Reading nutrition labels
• Worst Ingredients of Processed Foods