Tips

Spices to Avoid When Cooking

In the process of preparing and preserving food, spices are often used. However, apart from the healthy spices, it is also important to be aware of the spices to avoid.

Administrator

17 October, 2023

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MSG

MSG is an amino acid used as a flavor enhancer commonly found in soups, salads, potatoes, and restaurant foods. It can cause headaches or nausea in some people.

Animal studies have shown that it is associated with damaging nerve cells in the brains of baby mice. Gerbstadt advises people to replace MSG with a small amount of salt if possible. MSG not only causes headaches but also has other negative effects on some individuals.

Food Colorings

Perhaps people think that all dangerous food colorings have been banned by the FDA for a long time. However, there are still 5 types of food colorings on the market that are related to cancer in animal tests.

According to Dr. Gerbstadt, it is best to avoid all foods with food colorings. Although they are made from natural sources, these substances stimulate the formation of tumors.

Blue 1 and 2 in beverages, candies, and baked goods are considered to have the lowest risks but are still related to cancer in mice. Red 3 used in fruit cocktails, candies, and baked goods has been found to cause thyroid tumors. Green 3 – which is commonly found in beverages although not heavily used – is associated with bladder cancer. The widespread use of yellow 6 – found in beverages, hot dogs, gelatin, grilled foods, and candies – may cause tumors in the adrenal glands and kidneys.

White Sugar

Some foods contain natural sugars such as fruits and carrots. But be careful with foods that have added sugars such as pastries, cereals, cookies, or even dipping sauce and other processed foods.

Dr. Gerbstadt says that although white sugar is not poisonous, it is still on the list of 12 harmful condiments because if consumed in large quantities, it can be harmful to health and stimulate the growth of bad nutrients.

Dr. Gerbstadt suggests that the amount of sugar consumed daily should not exceed 10% of the total calories you consume each day. However, most Americans consume more, about 20 to 40%.

Too much sugar not only causes weight control problems, tooth decay, and increased blood sugar levels for diabetics but also replaces good nutrients in the body. Dr. Gerbstadt says, “In addition to providing unnecessary calories, your body needs nutrients to metabolize sugar, so it will take away many vitamins and minerals in your body.”

Sodium Chloride (Salt)

Commonly known as salt, it adds flavor to meals. But it is also a condiment that can cause some health problems. A small amount of salt helps preserve food, but if consumed excessively, it can be harmful to health, affecting cardiovascular function, leading to high blood pressure, chest pain, stroke, and kidney weakness.