There are a lot of these "foods to avoid" lists floating around the internet I so was inspired to make a list of my own.
Highly Processed Foods and Ingredients to Avoid:
- Artificial ingredients
This includes both synthetic dyes (like FD&C Red No. 40, Tartrazine, or Blue No. 1) and artificial sweeteners (like saccharin, aspartame, or sucralose). When you look at the history of food artificial ingredients haven’t been around all that long, and I don’t know about you, but I am not interested in being the guinea pig here. Plus the fact that artificial dyes require a warning label in many countries outside of the U.S. is enough of a deal breaker for me.
Instead: Look for dyes that come from natural sources (like paprika, saffron, or annatto) or forget the coloring all together (it's only for aesthetics). When it comes to sweeteners pick those that come from natural sources (like honey, maple syrup, and even sugar) over the artificial stuff, but always consume them in moderation (see #2).
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- - Refined sweeteners
It’s not that refined sweeteners themselves (like sugar) are the devil, but the quantity in which sweeteners are consumed these days is honestly the scary part. Sugar (or corn syrup or cane juice or brown rice syrup or whatever creative name is on the label) is no longer reserved for truly special occasions anymore, and instead is lurking in yogurts, breads, crackers, flavored oatmeal, beverages, and even innocent-looking salad dressings.
Instead: Rely on natural sweeteners like honey and maple syrup since they are mostly "processed" in nature and at least contain some trace nutrients. BUT it's important to remember that "sugar is sugar" no matter what you choose. So even if you go the more natural route (which is recommended!) that by no means gives you the green light to turn up the bottle. It's also helpful to buy foods "plain" (like yogurt, oatmeal, etc.) and sparingly sweeten them yourself to make sure things don't get out of hand.
- - Refined grains
This includes products made from white flour (usually labeled as enriched "wheat” flour), white rice, corn meal, etc. When grains are refined the most nutritional part of the grain (the bran and germ) is removed. This prolongs shelf life among other things, but remember...real food should (and does!) rot so avoid the science experiment and stick to the whole grains provided to us by nature.
Instead: Give up the white stuff and rely on nutritious whole-grains like whole-wheat flour, oats, brown rice, quinoa, and others.
- - Factory farmed meat and seafood
"Factory farms" raise animals in incredibly crowded and confined quarters so some (literally) never see the light of day. What's more these animals are oftentimes fed unnatural diets (for instance cows were meant to eat grass, not corn that, by the way, is likely GMO) and given unnecessary synthetic hormones and antibiotics to ensure they produce the most abundant meat products as quickly and efficiently as possible. According to Michael Pollan, "You are what you eat eats, too" so animals raised in such an unhealthy environment in turn produce products that are not as nutritious for you as the local, pastured (or wild caught) alternatives. Not to mention the negative impact these factory farms have on our environment and the inhumane manner in which these animals are being raised.
Instead: Shop your local farmers' market for humanely raised, pastured animal products. If you are concerned about the higher cost, then just eat less meat. It's that simple. And when selecting seafood always pick the "wild caught" variety so you know they were raised in their natural environment and eating their natural diet.
- - Ingredients you would not cook with at home
Rather than memorizing a complicated list of chemicals to avoid in packaged foods I am going to make this one really easy for you. Don't buy anything packaged that's made with ingredients you wouldn't cook with at home (which are usually items you can't even pronounce).
Instead: Stick with simple products made from a handful of pure ingredients or make food yourself from scratch.
- - Refined oils
"While olive oil and other pressed oils have been around for millennia," refined alternatives like shortening, soybean oil, and even canola oil are fairly new on the scene. That's because they are basically science experiments that were dreamed up in a lab by the food industry. These highly processed vegetable oils are cleaned with chemicals, genetically modified, and sometimes even hydrogenated so as a result we like to avoid them as much as possible.
Instead: Stick with traditional cooking fats like butter, olive oil, ghee (refined butter), unrefined coconut oil, and, yes, even pastured lard. As Michael Pollan says, "Innovation in food is bad."
- - Pre-flavored packaged products
As I touched on above there are a wide range of "flavored" products available these days including everything from beverages to yogurts to oatmeal to cream cheese. Trust me, food factories are going to use a lot more sugar, salt, oil, and unrecognizable ingredients than you would use to flavor these foods at home.
Instead: Buy plain and flavor/sweeten it yourself (naturally). When it comes to drinks squirt some lemon (or other citrus) in your water or sparkling water to kick things up a notch. :)
- - Imitation foods
This includes anything that’s trying to pretend to be something it's not. Like margarine (or vegan "butter"), processed cheese products, imitation crab meat, pancake "syrup," and "lemonade" powder. Believe it or not there used to be a regulation requiring manufacturers to clearly label foods like these as an “imitation.” But of course these products were looked down upon so it's no surprise that the ever-so-powerful food industry got that regulation thrown out the window. The bottom line is that imitation foods are a highly processed "fake" version of the real thing.
Instead: Buy the "real" versions of imitation foods like real butter, real cheese, real crab, or pure maple syrup, and make lemonade with real lemons (not artificial powder!).
- - Low-fat and fat-free products
You are off the hook. "Diet" foods are not only more processed (to get the fat out), but they never tasted that good anyway. As it turns out, according to Michael Pollan, “We’ve gotten fat on low-fat products.” And that's because when they take the fat out of these foods they no longer taste good so they have to add in a bunch of sugar (see #2 above). Binging on sugar and other refined sweeteners is the real issue here...not eating healthy fats like our ancestors have survived on for centuries.
Instead: Switch to full-fat dairy (including milk!) and avoid low-fat packaged foods all together.
- - Fast Food
It's an amazing feat, but fast food places have somehow managed to screw up the most innocent, wholesome-sounding real food meals like oatmeal, sandwiches, and salads - "Even the salads at McDonald’s are full of high-fructose corn syrup and thickeners made from corn.” So how about we all agree to "vote with our dollars" and avoid fast food joints all together?
Instead: Planning ahead is key when it comes to avoiding fast food restaurants while on the go. Before you leave the house each morning be sure to have all your meals mentally planned out in your head so you aren't caught off-guard empty handed. And always have some wholesome snacks (like dried fruit, nuts, or Lara Bars) on hand just in case you get in a bind!
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What's on your personal list of foods and ingredients to avoid?
Liz says
My question/comment is for #4. One of the reasons I don't eat meat, and am slowly giving up dairy is not only how the animals are raised but how they are slaughtered. I know it's not a pretty topic, but 'traditional' factory farm slaughterhouses are nightmares for the animals. I won't go into detail but don't imagine for a second that the cows and pigs and sheep just willingly walk up to the slaughter table and are then humanely killed. FAR FROM IT. Most animals smell death from a mile away and know what's ahead.
So where are the lucky ones that are raised humanely slaughtered? Are there different slaughter houses with different practices or are they sent to the nightmare factories and then stamped 'humanely raised' ? How much control do the farmers who raise them have over what happens?
Thanks,
Liz
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Liz. We appreciate your thoughts and concerns. There is so much information out there available to consumers which include different levels of seals and certifications regarding the humane treatment of animals. For your own peace of mind you may have to research each operation separately to find out what their standards and processes are. You may in the end decide to eat not meat at all and that may be what is best for you individually. In my little family, two of us are vegetarians and two are not. :) ~Amy
Amanda Nour says
Hey. I went vegetarian when I was 13 years old (now 24) for the same reasons. Not only is there a real probably in today's animal "production" for the meat consuming world, but the way they slaughter animals is so cruel that it makes me sick to think about. But there is another option...
It's called Halal meats. It's not very popular in the US (because it's based on Islamic teachings), but it's a much more beautiful way to end the life of an animal than is currently being done. Here is a link to a great video that really shows the difference: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jUeHXBjf7Hw ( I don't own this video!)
Basically only one animal is killed at a time (they aren't allowed to see any dead or dying animals), calmly without loud noises around, they aren't allowed to see the knife (as that is cruel)and the knife has to be very very sharp (as to not have to make repeat cuts thus equaling torture), the animal is given a drink of water, then in one fast deep stroke it's done. It's very fast. If you believe in God, then know that every death is made in God's name and the animal is thanked for it's sacrifice because it's going on the feed a human. This is a great option if you aren't against eating meat but you choose not to eat because of the cruelty you've witnessed or read about.
Anyway sorry for the LONG post. Hope this is helpful.
Nancy says
Hi There,
I LOVE your blog and the message it sends - EAT REAL FOOD! This message is especially important for kids!
I am wondering about # 6 on this list though. May I suggest you look into olive oils in general. Although they are BELIEVED to be one of the good oils, I believe that nowadays, they are a highly processed food with high fat. In the old days, they weren't processed but pressed. Now most of it is processed with a high level of fat that you can get from natural sources such as avocados and nuts. I try to avoid oil altogether and cook with water or veggie broth. Please let me know your thoughts on this. Here's an article you might want to read:
http://foodnhealth.tumblr.com/post/5016910329/olive-oil-more-of-a-processed-food-than-you-think
Thanks,
Nancy
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Nancy. We look for high quality cold pressed extra virgin unfiltered olive oil. Here is a post on oils that gives much more information: https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2011/05/14/mini-pledge-week-10-no-refined-oils/. ~Amy
Tosin O'Callaghan says
Hello! I have a question regarding dairy. If the dairy item consumed is reduced fat but with no added sugar (e.g. Total plain 2% Greek yogurt, plain natural 2% milk etc) is it okay to consume? I know a lot of low fat products have sugar added to enhance flavour taken out with the fat but if the product is plain with nothing else added, it should be okay to eat, no?
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Tosin. Here is a post that goes into more detail about all the ingredients that can end up in low fat products: https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2011/04/15/mini-pledge-week-6-no-low-fat-lite-or-nonfat-food-products/. It might be possible to find lower fat products that have a "cleaner" ingredient list but you would need to scrutinize the labels thoroughly. And, keep in mind that just removing the fat adds to the processing of any food item. ~Amy
Beth says
FYI- #10: Lara bars are owned by Genral mills, a company that is against labeling GMOs.
Make your own.
Laura says
Hi. New to your blog here. Number 5 hit home for me. I remember grocery shopping with my mom when I was about 12 or 13 and asking for a bottle of salad dressing. She had me look at the back of the bottle and said if you can pronounce every ingredient and tell me what those ingredients are I will buy it . Needless to say I failed the test and we had moms homemade vinegarette for our salad. Looking back, smart mom :)
Michele N says
What a wise mom to say that instead of just answering "no"!
Steph says
He's also allergic to soy, peanuts and tree nuts.
Steph says
This is about #8 Imitation foods. My son has food allergies to dairy so we use Earth Balance Soy free spread. If i wanted to use non-imitation what could i use to substitute instead?
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Steph. Certainly adaptations have to be made when accommodating allergy needs. Here is information on the fats Lisa uses and how:
For baking (in place of liquid vegetable oil): Melted butter or melted coconut oil
For baking (in place of solid shortening): Cold/solid butter or coconut oil
For low temperature sautéing: Olive oil, real butter, or clarified butter (a.k.a. ghee)
For high temp sautéing: Clarified butter (a.k.a. ghee), coconut oil, or pastured lard
For deep-frying (high temp): Pastured lard or coconut oil
~Amy
Emily says
Hi :) This is in reference to #8: Imitation Foods. I recently gave up dairy products in an effort to clear up my cystic acne - and it worked (yay!), but I really miss cheese. One of the things I've been buying was the Lisanti Almond Cheese so that when I"m making grilled cheese or pizza for my husband, I can have some too. Looking at the ingredients list, it's probably not the best. Does anyone have any suggestions for natural foods that might help me not miss cheese so much. Avocado in omelertes and sandwiches is good, but sometimes I just really want a grilled cheese you know? :-/
Emily says
Also, I've been drinking Almond Milk.
Sandy says
Have you tried Trader Joe's mozzarella shreds? Better yet is
Daiya mozzarella or cheddar.
Rhiannon says
Hi Emily,
I have recently started making my own almond milk. It is unbelievably easy and cost effective if you can buy in bulk. Here is a link for a variety of recipes on how to make your own nut cheese, the almond cheese seems just about as easy as almond milk. I can only speak on the milk, but the taste is great and you can avoid all those weird additives: http://www.rawmazing.com/raw-recipe-simple-almond-cheese/
Lisa has a recipe for almond milk here on her blog.
Emily says
Oh wow, thank you :) I will definitely have to try these!
The Dakini says
Emily,
Depending n where you live or where you shop, try and purchase dairy products from Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan. These states have outlawed the use the growth hormones used in dairy herds for decades. If you want to make sure your cheese is hormone free, buy Wisconsin cheese. No kidding. It's taken so seriously here, farms get shut down and cheese makers lose there licensing if they are caught. It may cost a little more, but you are getting the real and best stuff.
Whole foods carries milk and cheese products that come from these areas of the country. Dairy doesn't cause acne, it's the hormone injections that do, not to mention countless other health problems like cancer.
Emily says
Thanks :) That is really good to know for when I'm buying dairy products for my husband. The interesting thing is that the studies I've read suggest the problem related to acne is the naturally occurring hormones in cows (not the artificially induced ones like rBST) that carry over into dairy products, boosting our own hormone levels - so for someone like me with a low hormone/breakout threshold, regular dairy consumption keeps me in a constant state of breakout (see the following links: http://woodbury.edu/mcd/majors/filmmaking/faculty and http://www.clearskinforever.net/milk-acne-does-milk-cause-acne/). My first move was to switch to organic and sometimes raw dairy products, but I continued to breakout. It wasn't until I eliminated dairy completely for several months that my skin became consistently clear for the first time in over 15 years. That being said, I'm still always interested to know what dairies are trustworthy so I know what to buy for my family :) Thanks again!
Kristen says
Are you dairy free or casein free? Casein is in cows milk but not goat or sheeps milk, at least from what research I have found. We eat only goat cheese, manchego and Pecorino Romano cheese. These are safe for my family, we are casein free. The goat cheese is spreadable, manchego has a sharp flavor and Pecorino Romano is great on pizza.
Hilary says
Lisa, a friend told me about your blog almost 2 weeks ago. I perused through it for hours, reading all I could, looking up all your recipes... I got so inspired and saw how practical it could be that I totally made a 180 in my family's eating habits. Ever since (about 2 weeks now), I have not had any coke (something I used to have every day), no fast food, bought mostly organic products, had very few sweet things (I have a huge sweet tooth, so this is big!), have made all of my family's food from scratch, got rid of all the junk... and Im really enjoying it! I cant tell you how thankful I am to have come across your blog. I have been convicted for awhile now that we need to get healthier and reading your blog has been a real eye opener for me. I really feel that I can do this long term and that it will truly benefit me, my husband, and our 3 young children. Thank you SO much for all of your hard work, you are helping people!!!!
<3
Hilary
Gina Beiler says
So much of this article seems to make such good sense. However, after having been diagnosed with a heart condition and been told to lower my cholesterol, I wonder how that would be possible following this criteria. I cannot eat butter or lard (Yuk!) or full fat dairy products any longer. Any suggestions will be appreciated.
Denise says
Gina,
I drink coconut or almond milk. It is different but you get used to it. I have even tried rice milk. I stay away from soy because they say it can lead to increased cancer risks. My family has a history of cancers.
I also use safflower or grapeseed oil. They even have coconut spread. It is like butter. I also use almond butter on toast. It is like peanut butter but made with almonds.
Denise
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hello Gina. Always follow your doctors advice first! That said, I would think that most of this list would work well for you. You may feel the need to adapt a couple but do try to apply what you can as cutting out processed food is a good health choice across the board. All the best. ~Amy
Lindsey Zanchettin says
I'm wondering about soybean oil. You say to avoid it, as it's a refined oil, yet Triscuits have soybean oil in them and you bought them almost weekly when you did your 100 day pledge, so I've been taking that lead and buying them, too. What's the verdict?
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi there Lindsey. The Leake's very rarely purchase Tricuits now because of that refined oil. The first 100 Days was early on in their journey and they have revised a few things. They typically buy Ak Mak crackers now. Those and some others can be found here: https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2011/04/21/for-convenience-the-best-store-bought-snacks-ii/. ~Amy
Mary says
Growing up on a dairy farm, I enjoyed milk unprocessed. But we always skimmed off the cream after it rose to the top and used it to make butter. Why do you think I should drink whole milk instead of skim? I don't think of taking off some of the cream as unhealthy at all!
Susan says
Looking at the sweeteners info - what about agave syrup? I've been using this in my tea etc since I returned from my sister's in NH (I live in SW England). Is this a goodie or baddie?
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
:) Hi Susan. We do not use agave. Here is a link that can help explain why: http://www.foodrenegade.com/agave-nectar-good-or-bad/. ~Amy
Monica says
You mentioned that "vegan" butters are bad. I never knew that! I buy earth balance soy and dairy free spread because my son is allergic to milk, eggs and soy. Would you recommend not using it at all or is there a better alternative for baking? I see a lot of vegan or allergy free dessert recipes with palm shortening as an ingredient, but I usually use the Earth Balance spread instead.
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Monica. Coconut oil works great for baking for baking. Here is some additional information: https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2012/02/07/how-to-cook-with-coconut-oil/. Hope that helps. ~Amy
Sheri says
When talking about picky eaters, I remember my Mom used to "make" me drink milk and eat eggs and thought I was just picky when I would end up straight in the bathroom sick. I had severe allergies to what she made me eat. Now I have a daughter with multiple allergies as well and she loves fresh lettuce, parsnips,pickled onions.... a gourmet eater!
krista says
Love your site - question about whole milk though. We recently switched to skim because we were concerned about the amount of estrogens in milk. Apparently, even organic whole milk has extremely high estrogen levels, although studies conflict on this point. Would love your thoughts.
Lisa says
We drink whole milk because it's "less processed" than the low-fat or fat-free variety...we have not personally researched the different estrogen levels of the different options.
renee says
now that FDA has allowed GM alfalpha into the feed for cows, does anyone know if that is allowed in organic milk feed as well?
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hello Renee. A farmer cannot legally label his/her milk as organic unless they are feeding their cows non-GMO feed. While there is never a guarantee of no cross contamination, organic still means GMO free. Here is some more information: http://www.nongmoshoppingguide.com/brands/dairy-by-region.html. ~Amy
renee says
i just read the link you sent..t/y! so i have been buying diary that doesnot contain rBST so based on this article unless it is organic, the diary could still have GMO's in it because of the feed?
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Yes, Renee. That is the way I understand it. Please know that we aren't experts just yet. :) ~Amy
JWCamp says
"...real food should (and does!) rot...?" Honey never spoils and you can't get anymore real than that.
Nikki says
I am curious... what is so bad about skim milk? I understand that low-fat yogurts, etc have lots of sugar added and such... but what about skim milk? I am mildly lactose intolerant and drinking whole milk makes me sick but skim milk (in moderation) works just fine with my system! I realize that it is processed to take the fat out... but do they actually add anything in?
Nikki says
Hi Nikki... nice name! I am lactose intolerant as well, and unfortunately, yes, there are additives in skim milk. To make up for the loss of texture after the fat is removed, it is supplemented with dry milk. Because this is still technically a milk product, it doesn't legally have to be listed as an additive. Production of dry milk uses chemicals... so in a round about way, yep, you're getting chemicals with your skim milk.
Additionally, the nutrients found naturally in milk are fat soluble and they are not used by the body unless there's some fat available to absorb them.
I avoid milk in general because of the lactose intolerance, but occasionally use a LactAid pill. It's a bummer.
Sarah says
I have a three year old who absolutely will not eat meat. Ground up, cut up, whole, fried, poached, grilled, hidden: he will NOT EAT IT. Fortunately, he will eat beans, eggs, tofu and cheese, but you who say there are only parent-produced picky eaters can try him on for size and when you're done, put your broad brush back in the closet of over-generalities where it belongs.
Loni Bandet Barss says
We live in Canada (the Prairies) and back in the early 2000's, my husband and I had about 100 purebred Red Angus cattle which were grassfed with absolutely no hormones, nothing artificial in their systems. The Red Angus is a superior meat because of the marbling in the meat and in restaurants people pay a premium for it. When it came time to sell the animals, the buyer could see what breed they were and knew that they were not from a feedlot which meant that they were a superior animal but we were never given an extra cent for the animal even though it was grassfed with no hormones, etc. One of our animals had a frozen ear so we got 17 cents per pound for it instead of $1.00 per pound. The buyer loves to rip of the small producer whenever it can. Outrageous! Just because it had an odd ear. They throw out the ear anyway. So that's how it is for the small cattle producer in western Canada. We no longer have cattle because it cost us more to raise them than we got when we sold them.
kathy says
the best foods to eat for meat are grass fed meats. You can also buy grass fed eggs and butter. NO processed foods. Just whole foods. Kids will eat what you give them as long as it looks appealing. If they are started out on junk food they will continue on it. It is up to the parents to set and example
Pam B says
I had a conversation with a farmer's wife who raises hogs in Lancaster county , PA. When I asked her to explain the life of a pig, her response was, "Well, we get them as babies. They come off a truck a few weeks old. Then we take care of them until it's market time". I asked what timeframe did they care for them? Her response was about 2-3 months. I asked how much did they weigh when they were " market ( slaughter) worthy" ? She said between 200-400 lbs. I asked " How do you get them to grow so big?" . She said "Growth hormones". She said she's so tired of Ham/Pork products in her freezer and when I asked why, she said," If a pig is lame or has a defect, they are not market worthy, but they go into my freezer".
Just another reason to stay away from pork products-- even if they are "farm" raised. Unless you know what the animal ate--buyer beware!
Shannon says
I think it is true that we need to "vote with our dollars." However it is also true to vote the issues. If you are concerned with knowing exactly what is in your food then you must vote for regulation. That means allowing the FDA to restrict food companies from putting harmful ingredients in their foods. Consider this: we may buy safe foods for our families but we also pay taxes. Taxes are used to support food programs( food stamps) if you are trying to make your food stamps stretch, you will buy whatever is the least expensive--we all know what is in those foods. Therefore, we do pay for those foods whether we consume them or not. Why should we pay more for healthy foods ,why should anyone? The corporations use artificial ingredients to stretch their dollars and increase their profits. When you hear politicians fight for less regulation, that is what they mean, they are concerned with corporate profits, not our health. That means vote carefully for your members of congress! The President does not "make the laws." Research your congrssional lobbyists, see who they are fighting for.
Kristina says
I came across your website on pinterest and I love all the crazy useful info! Just curious though. Is it just me or are a lot of your words scrambled? Seems to more the gov knows you're right and doesn't want their dirty details and scandalous behavior spread around the internets. Keep up the great food detective work! People need to hear the truth. We all know our wonderful government won't give it to us.
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Kristina. I guess I do not understand the scrambled words question. What were you asking? ~Amy
Kristina says
Sorry this took me so long! Well That's weird. When I first read this post literally all of the letters in a lot of the responses and part of the actual post were all scrambled, like someone just button mashed on the key board. I look at it now and it's all completely readable. Hmmm...
Zarah says
Great information about GMO! Yes Whole foods is not Organic and does admittedly carry GMO foods. For the high prices here I'm scratching my head why anyone would shop at Whole Pay Check. Stay away
Nicola says
I shop at whole foods from time to time. They offer conventionally grown and organic. If done right, you can shop there and not spend a gazillion dollars. The thing is that they sell higher end foods which are more expensive. If you stay away from the middle aisles, you can keep your grocery bill down. Also, Whole Foods is one of the few places in the Seattle market that sells grass-fed beef. It's 6.99 a pound for grass-fed hamburger where the cows have the ability to roam a pasture and be cows.
Stiffie Fornicatesthedead says
Oh -- guess what? The genetically engineered salmon won't be required to have a label stating that it is genetically modified. I guess that comes as no surprise.
Stiffie Fornicatesthedead says
Don't buy Lura Bars!!! They are owned by General Mills (who donated to defeat Proposition 37 [the GMO labeling initiative] in California). This is a company to BOYCOTT. We are NOT science experiments. The FDA is on its way to allowing genetically modified salmon into our streams and our food supply without extensive testing. Two documentaries should be watched about this horrific industry and the health impacts of this food:
Genetic Roulette: The Gamble of Our Lives
and Global Alert! GMO Ticking Time Bomb.
Both are free (full documentary length) on YouTube.
robbo says
Look out for some hidden dangers, too. MUFA foods like olives and almonds contain high levels of acrylamide, a carcinogen.
JC says
Deb, I could not agree more!
deb says
I am going to be very blunt here. Why do you have picky eaters (there are always exeptions). My kids have never had an option. What i made for them is what they were going to eat right from the beginning. I will never force them to eat anything but then they will go to bed hungry. There are only a few things that they will not eat now. It is a joy to eat with them. I can be totally creative and try out new things all the time that they are will (gladly) try.
I know this sounds very harsh. Trust me it is not. I can count on one hand the times that we had an issue with food / meals. If your kids are picky, cut out the snacks. That is what i do when i try out something daring ;-)Kids respond so well to real food. Because they like it.
Sorry for rambling. Picky kids are made by adults. Remember, it is about more then "just" food. You are teaching your child respect, You go to work and provide, You cook the food with best intentions. Also to be grateful and thankful. This dinner is what we could afford (maybe it was on sale), that they even have a meal in front of them... and so many other important lessons that will last them a lifetime!
Beth says
RIght on sister!!! My kids are not picky eaters at all. They have always eaten what I put on the table. No choices, unless they absolutely lost it (threw up). And that did happen once with each kid. To this day, they each have one item that they just cannot eat. They eat everything and try everything at least once. They are healthy eaters too. They didn't mind a bit when I started eliminating more of the processed, dyed and artificially flavored foods. I love to cook, so making a healthy home cooked meal every night is not a problem with me. I think picky eaters come from picky parent's. I've heard first hand parent's telling their kids that they wouldn't like something. They didn't even give them a chance to see if they would like it.
Ally says
There are cases where a picky eater is not made by an adult. My picky eater was a result of texture issues. He is my first child and i had no idea what to do when he gagged on not only foods but the feel of playdoh in his hands. Thankfully he has gown out of most of it but it was a very difficult time - please be considerate of others and realize that there are exceptions to every rule.
Eileen says
I absolutely agree. We feed our children healthy, whole foods, but some days it is a challenge to get them to eat anything and all they want is fruit. There is never a one rule fits all... so you didn't give your kids a choice and it worked for you... feel blessed... we are not all so lucky. Oh how I wish I was!
twinmama says
I thought that picky eaters were due to parenting until I had twins and one is very picky and the other eats everything. They still haven't had sugar and only a handful of processed foods (mostly birthday parties). We cook everything from scratch and have tried every trick in the book with our boy. Go to bed hungry, hide food in other food, keep serving the same food often. Nothing has worked so far. It might be a texture thing, he is better with hummus and yogurt. But he screams and cries at the sight of food he doesn't want to eat.
I may not change your mind, probably nobody could have changed mine until I lived it, but I am much more compassionate towards other parents and their struggles with their kids because I now think that some kids are more difficult than others regardless of the parenting. I do hope that more parents will be encouraging rather than critical. Those struggling parents need it! And want it.
richterknc says
Thank you for posting this response. It makes me so angry that some people think picky eating is a result of parenting! I have 3 children and my firstborn is by far the hardest. I recently found out he has several food allergies as well. My other children are not "picky". In fact, my middle child eats everything and LOVES to try new foods. I would be thrilled if I didn't have to deal with this issue with my firstborn. He cries at almost every meal and has thrown-up a few times when forced to eat just one bite. I certainly didn't create the issue! He has been this way since birth. He would only take breast milk (and then I found out he was allergic to milk so that is why he cried whenever given a bottle). Truthfully those parents that blame other parents for their childrens eating habits are ignorant of the situation. You don't know the situation we deal with so back off!!!
Shayno says
Thank you Ally & Twinmama. I have 7 kids and only one of them is a picky eater. He also has texture issues. He literally is the one that would rather starve than eat something that is unappealing to his palette. The proof came when he was in a hospital once and refused to eat the food they gave him. He lost 7 lbs there (he was 11 at the time). It truly is a struggle dealing with kids that have food aversions or difficulties. It never helps to judge others and their situation. It is a daily battle to make sure he gets the nutrition he needs.
April says
Yes Twin mama! That has been my experience with my children. My first born is not picky at all except that she doesn't like spicy food. I was very proud and would scoff at other parents. I would think that the only reason kids are picky is because their parents give in to them too much. Well that pride went away when my son was born. He also will literally gag if I ask him to take a bite of something he doesn't want to. And if you think he is trying to manipulate me that is not true because I do not "give in" and make him different food. And guess what? He will choose to not eat anything! He will go hungry rather than eat something that disgusts him. He really likes apples and cucumbers and will eat these all days. I have also learned to not make assumptions about other peoples parenting!
Sarah says
I have a three year old who absolutely will not eat meat. Ground up, cut up, whole, fried, poached, grilled, hidden: he will NOT EAT IT. Fortunately, he will eat beans, eggs, tofu and cheese, but you who say there are only parent-produced picky eaters can try him on for size and when you’re done, put your broad brush back in the closet of over-generalities where it belongs.
Lacey says
I never ate meat as a child, only eggs and dairy. My parents tried everything, when I was 17 I finally got tested and found out I am allergic to it (some are worse then others).
Geraldine says
I think picky eaters are not the same as unhealthy eaters... Sure some kids are very picky with textures etc., but then there are other healthy options that they do like (like Sarah posted). I think we have to stop labeling because that is harmful for kids (and parents). It's fine to be picky, as long as you're healthy.
But when parents say that their kid won't eat anything than Cheerios, yeah, I'm sorry that IS their fault.
Nikki says
It does sound harsh because it is. I have two boys. One is very adventurous, will eat just about anything and do it with relish. Some things he likes and some things he doesn't. The other son is a "picky" eater and always has been. I raised them both the same. I know my picky son does not like peas, just genuinely does not like them, gagged when he tried. Why would I put a plate of peas in front of him knowing he genuinely hates them, expect him to eat them, and then make him go to bed hungry? I do ask that he's polite about things he dislikes, no tantrums, no rude sounds, just "thanks for making this, but I really don't care for it."
There are foods I dislike as well (lima beans, most legumes) and I won't force it. Life is too short to eat things you hate. I try to give my kids options: if I make peas, I also make broccoli or steamed carrots, since I know he'll eat those. My son has a narrow range of what he likes. It's just him. I didn't make him that way and there's nothing wrong with it.
Sarah says
AMEN NIKKI. I have a similar situation. One of my sons is a fabulous eater: he will eat absolutely anthing including aged blue cheese and jalapenos. He loves meat of any kind. He's four. His brother, the three year old, will eat no meat no matter what I do to it. Even hidden he sniffs it out and refuses it. We are a household of excellent nutrition and food choices for everyone. Some food aversions are hard wired into the child. Will he grow out of it? Maybe. Or maybe he'll just be a vegetarian. But like you, I'm not about to discipline him by withdrawing food to prove a point.
Kristinia says
Awesome write-up on what foods to avoid. I know it may be harder for parents to go out and buy everything "all-natural" and organic, (due to time/price) basically anything good for the people who are in-taking the food. As a child I didn't question what was on my plate. My parents made the food, we were grateful, and we ate it! Kids are soo picky these days and we have to blame the parents because they are buying the food and/or preparing it. It's soo easy to hand your child a sugary snack or microwaved hotdogs as a meal, and even drive-thru at some fast food joint, but the easy way isn't ever the best way. People wonder why there is obesity, kids lacking nutrients, auto-immune disorders, cancer, etc... and of course don't get me started on all the ADD/ADHD, Autism, etc that just sprouted out of nowhere... Our food corps take the easy way due to mass production for their pockets not ours and we buy it like dumb sheep because its convenient..
renee says
agree, besides kids with texture issues, the parents offering other choices as too what is on the table is problem forming. with three kids chances are not all are going to be thrilled at the same time but i am not about to make 3 different dinners either. my thoughts ~you don't want it? fine. you don't need to eat it. but they need to eat their dinner if they want dessert or a snack afterwards.
Shawn says
Puhleeeeeze! In my opinion forcing children to go hungry because they don't like what you cooked is bordering on abusive. You should treat your children with the same respect you would your spouse or a guest - with kindness and respect. Parenting them and having to teach them what they need to know to be decent humans does not require forced food, or worse, forced hunger. A child is defenseless against your whims. That's right, WHIMS. That's the correct word for your behavior when you don't feed them something. That's why there are leftovers, a pot of good beans or mac n cheese that you made, or a pbj, come in. You don't have to cook a whole other meal, but you should plan on having low-effort backup. To anyone who disagrees, did you have a child to raise and love, or did you have a child so you could be controlling, dictatorial, and lord it over someone with no defenses because they depend on you for everything? If you wouldn't force yourself to eat what you don't like, don't do it to your kids. That's mean. And they won't forget. When you are in a nursing home do you want them to bring you food you like, or just sit there and tell you if you don't like the yucky food that is often served, you can just be hungry? You reap what you sow.
Ada says
I love your blog but I can't believe you're still advocating Lara bars after they openly supported voting no on prop 37.
Lisa says
Yes, I support GMO labeling, but my main focus is feeding my family products that follow these rules: https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/real-food-defined-a-k-a-the-rules/ If readers want to take things a step further by banning certain companies that is certainly up to them.
Samantha Shah says
Sorry if you answered this before, I'm somewhat new to your site...what do you think about Agave for a sweetner? I've seen it in a few recipes recently. Also, have you tried freezing and reheating your whole grain pancakes? My family has gotten dependant upon store bought frozen pancakes. My 3 children are not big eaters in the morning, but that is one thing I can count on that all 3 will eat before school (with some fresh berries). they will also eat homemade pancakes, but I am NOT a morning person at all, so I'm not even going to pretend that homemade pancakes are going to happen during the week. my son and I have a date to head to the local Great Harvest Bread Company on Sat am to try their whole grain bread (he didn't care for the Ezekiel bread I purchased. Thanks for the inspiration. We're taking babysteps around here to cut out processed food!
Assistant to 100 Days (Jill) says
Hi Samantha. We do not use agave and here is a little bit more info as to why...http://www.foodrenegade.com/agave-nectar-good-or-bad/. Jill
Melanie Kabo says
I love your blog and have been reading it for a while. Thank you for all of the time you invest into putting all of this great info into it. I was diagnosed with cancer (no cure) about a year ago and I use your blog a lot for dinner recipes and for my children's lunch recipes. I have told many people about your blog as we are trying to go without processed food and have eliminated it completely in our children's lunches, thanks to your help. I do believe that eating this way will help prolong my life, so thank you again for your blog!
Leah Berry says
First of all I just want to say {{HUGS}} to Melanie Kabo! I have been reading your blog for a while also with every good intention of switching to whole foods. I find it hard because I'm carb and sugar addict and I don't like very many veggies or hummus or things like that so I get bored quickly. Also, I'm not used to making literally everything from scratch, but I really do want to make this change. Any advice?? And I also thank you for all the work you put into this blog.
Assistant to 100 Days (Jill) says
Hi Leah. I think once you break the cycle of the "carb and sugar addiction" as you state you'll start to see your palate expand and you won't be craving those things anymore. I never believed that to be the case, but, it really is true. I used to always crave sugar and now that I eat whole grains and a lot more plant based food those cravings all went away. So, when I do indulge now in something homemade I can eat just a small amount. I hope you'll give it a chance, I think you'll be amazed at the difference. Jill
Melanie Kabo says
Thank you Leah!! I was a huge sugar addict, but when I stopped eating as much of it, I really stopped craiving it. I've also heard that if you're craiving chocolate to eat an apple. I try to fill up on fruit when I'm craiving sweets so that I get that sweetness that I'm craiving and feel up enough that I'm not going to go eat a huge candy bar or bowl of ice cream. I love bananas right now because they seem to fill me up more than other fruits. Good luck, you'll feel great when you make that change in your life!
Leah Berry says
Thank you Melanie and Jill for your reply to my message. Since My post I have added more fruit and veggies to my meals and mostly only drink water and I have already noticed a difference. I do not crave sweets as much anymore. I have also started making things from scratch with whole wheat flour i.e. banana nut muffins and whole wheat rolls. I've also started buying more organic produce and meats. Thank you so much for your help.
PS) I will try eating an apple in place of chocolate :)
Assistant to 100 Days (Jill) says
Hi Melanie. Thanks for your note and I'm sorry to hear about your diagnosis. But, yes, I agree, I think diet can have a huge impact. Best of luck to you and your family - I hope you continue to enjoy the recipes and feel well. Jill
Melanie Kabo says
Thank you Jill! While I'm loving the recipes and ideas of this blog, we are all vegetarian so I would love some more vegetarian recipes!!
Stop doing that says
First time at this site, looking for ways to de-crud my eating... and last. Why do people insist on referencing Mercola? He's a stopped clock.
April says
Soda was the first healthy change that I made and by far the best. It wasn't easy at all and I had cravings for at least a couple years with certain foods but don't have them anymore (I quit 6 years ago). I also avoid eating fast food...that's not difficult if I make extra for dinner and take leftovers to work.
Sahana says
Great post. I had no idean McDonald's salads have HFCS.
Being vegetarian, I don't eat out as much. but I have had imitation meats a few times we went to 100% vegetarian restaurants. I gave up after a couple of attempts. It tastes too bad and the amount of processing it undergoes takes the appealing part out. I started going down this path, when I realized that I had to feed my baby, infant formula whose ingredients list looked like a laundry list from a lab.
Also, it has been 8 years or so since we switched to full fat dairy and haven't really had any weight gain issues (fingers crossed).
danielle says
I love your site!!!
i'm trying to do the 10 days and until now it's been ok :)
I have a question ... where do you buy your meat?
thank you
dani
Lisa says
We buy all of our meat from the Matthews Farmers' Market in Matthews, NC.
Carrie says
Hi Lisa,
Thank you so much for such an informed and thoughtful website. I have truly enjoyed reading through many of your posts and thinking through how I'll apply them to our family's eating. I noticed how much you love the Lara Bars, and wanted to tip you off on a product made by Clif Bar, called Kit's Organic Fruit and Nut Bar. They're similar to Lara Bar in terms of having only a few ingredients (dates, nuts, berries, etc.) and no weird ingredients, but they have the added benefit of being 100% organic, which Lara is NOT. Not sure about North Carolina, but here in Ohio I can buy mine at Whole Foods. My favorite is the Cashew one, but Peanut Butter and Jelly is pretty yummy too! :) Here's the ingredient list...just thought I'd share since they've been great for our family!
http://www.clifbar.com/food/products_kits_organic/
Assistant to 100 Days (Jill) says
Hi Carrie. Yes, we have discovered those bars. I agree, they're an even better option than the Lara Bars. They also state they are GMO free. Jill
Ellen says
Great article. I knew most of these things once upon a time but it was a good and timely reminder. Thanks!