When you’re shopping for food these days, it can be hard to tell what’s good for you and what’s bad for you. Labeling can be misleading, nutrition facts aren’t always what they seem to be and according to the news, just about anything can be considered bad for you! Not to mention, on top of all of this, you might not truly understand things like “gluten free,” “non GMO” or “no artificial additives.” When you think about it, what really defines health foods in Poplar Bluff, MO?
If you’re confused, don’t worry—most people are! But, in order to start learning more about what foods are considered health foods and which ones are just imitating them, you need to start asking the right questions and looking for the right information.
Processed versus organic
Organic foods are all the rage these days because they’re substantially healthier over processed foods—the problem is that foods can be labeled “organic” even if they’re not completely and totally organic! How do you tell if a food is organic versus processed?
For starters, processed foods will have a slew of ingredients listed on them that you’re going to have a hard time deciphering. Second, unless the packing says “100 percent organic” or something to that effect, it’s likely there are additives that aren’t organic within the food.
Finally, if you’re dealing with produce, you can look at the item code associated with the produce. Organic produce codes start with a “9” followed by four other digits, where as a code with no nine and only four digits means the produce was treated with pesticides and other chemicals. Produce beginning with an “8” and followed by four digits are genetically modified foods.
Picking out wellness foods
Another way to determine the validity of health foods in Poplar Bluff, MO is to consider the food itself. For example, if you’re looking at potato chips, there’s a good bet that they’re not going to be considered healthy, even if they do boast a sticker that says, “now with less sodium” or “reduced fat.” On the other hand, picking out bananas means choosing a food that’s overall more healthy purely in its nature!
When you’re trying to decide if a food is healthy, take a look at its nutritional information. Foods that are high in sodium, saturated fat, sugars (refined) or extremely high in carbohydrates are foods that you might want to shy away from. Being comfortable with a nutritional facts panel means knowing exactly what you’re putting in your body and being able to make smarter choices.
Health food stores
If you’re still confused about health foods in Poplar Bluff, MO, it’s best to make a couple of trips to your local health foods stores. There, you’ll learn more about what separates good foods from the rest of the pack and you’re bound to pick up tips and information about what to buy versus what not to buy when it comes to making a trip to the local grocery store.
Whether you’re eating healthier because you want to or your diet demands a certain set of staples and restrictions, one of the best things you can do for yourself is to familiarize yourself with health foods and their benefits!