Potato chips, peanut butter, and bread are just a few of the ultra-processed foods in your kitchen that make up more than half of the average American’s diet. However, studies have shown that people who eat more ultra-processed foods tend to take in more calories because of the way they are produced. This can lead to an increased risk of diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and heart disease.
Anahad O’Connor is a health columnist who writes about food and eating for the Post’s Well + Being section.What he’s been researching lately How are ultra-processed foods made? and Easy way to switch them to minimally processed alternatives.
“This is not a black and white issue. You don’t have to stop eating all ultra-processed foods. I write about ultra-processed foods, and I consume some ultra-processed foods. It’s just being aware of what you’re choosing to ingest.”
Today’s show was produced by Savvy Robinson. It was mixed by Shawn Carter. Edited by Lucy Perkins.
Listen to our previous report on how ultra-processed foods ended up on school lunch trays. here.
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