10 Food Ingredients This Coach Avoids at All Costs

Do you really know what you are eating? According to one expert, probably not. Angela Rummans a cookbook author and fitness coach who regularly shares content about healthy eating and weight loss. In a new Instagram video, she discusses reading the fine print when it comes to food. "The ingredients we grew up with have changed," she writes across the video. In the caption, she adds, "Our body deserves better! Which one was the most shocking to you? For me, the MSG in both KFC and Campbells' chicken soup! Eeeek. Remember when food was just food? Today, unfortunately, many of our favorites are packed with preservatives, artificial flavors, MSG, and unpronounceable additives. What to look for and why," she writes.

High Fructose Corn Syrup

The first ingredient is high fructose corn syrup (HFCS). "Linked to obesity, diabetes, and liver fat buildup," she writes in her post. According to Angela, Pepsi used to be made with real sugar but now includes HFCS instead.

Hydrogenated Oils (Trans Fats)

The next ingredient is hydrogenated oils, AKA trans fats. "Raises bad cholesterol, increases heart disease risk," she says. In the video, she uses the example of JIF peanut butter, which used to be made with just peanuts and salt but now contains hydrogenated vegetable oils.

Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a popular ingredient. "MSG is a flavor enhancer that can cause headaches, nausea, and other symptoms in sensitive individuals. It's often found in heavily processed foods, raising concerns about its long-term effects and overall diet quality," she says. Angela maintains that KFC chicken used to be made without preservatives, but now it is included. Also, she says, Campbell's soup now contains it.

Artificial Colors (Red 40, Yellow 5)

A common ingredient, especially in food that kids eat? Artificial colors (Red 40, Yellow 5), says Angela. "Linked to hyperactivity in kids and potential cancer risks," she writes.

Preservatives (BHA, BHT)

She is also concerned about preservatives (BHA, BHT). "Used in processed foods, linked to cancer and organ damage," she says. Disodium inosinate and guanylate are two preservatives reportedly found in Taco Bell ground beef that weren't used before.

Sodium Nitrate/Nitrate

Pregnant women are encouraged to stay away from lunch meat due to the presence of sodium nitrate/nitrite. "Found in processed meats, linked to cancer risk," says Angela.

Artificial Sweeteners (Aspartame, Sucralose)

Sugar-free isn't always a better alternative. Artificial sweeteners like aspartame and sucralose may be less healthy than the real deal. "May cause headaches, dizziness, and potential neurological issues," says Angela.

Carrageenan

Carrageenan may be derived from red seaweed, but that doesn't mean the thickening product is good for you, per Angela. "Linked to digestive problems like bloating and inflammation," she says.

Sodium Benzoate

Sodium benzoate is another common preservative, often used in fruit juice, jam, pickles, and salad dressing. "Can form benzene, a carcinogen, and linked to hyperactivity," says Angela.

Potassium Bromate

The last item on her list is potassium bromate, an oxidizing agent in a lot of baked goods. "Banned in many countries, linked to cancer, but still used in some bread products," she says. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Leah Groth

Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related. Read more

Filed Under