Ask the Nutritionist

Hi,

I see products on the market that  have no saturated fat or they say heart healthy, etc., but they list so many chemicals. Is it truely better to use those products that have been modified and are so chemically rich than the original couterpart?

Heather

I can't say "yes" or "no" as a blanket statement.  It really depends on the product, and the chemicals you are referring to.  It may be that the chemicals listed are vitamins and minerals that are enriching the product, it may be a very safe preservative that is used to make the product shelf stable.  If you can supply me with an example of something you are concerned about, I'd love to reply more specifically. 

I am very much an advocate of an all natural diet, and so typically recommend avoiding packaged, processed foods and therefore lessen the worry about chemical names that sound confusing and questionable.  There are so many naturally heart healthy foods and naturally low fat foods, that there is seldom reason to have to rely on unpronouncable alternatives.  Stick with the produce isle, the seafood counter, the fresh lean meats, the legumes, and the fat free/low fat dairy products, vegetable oils, nuts and seeds, and whole grains. Find a natural foods stores that focuses on selling such products. 

I'll check back to the board soon to see if you have any particular product you'd like me to comment on.  Good luck with the weight loss, I love the little ticker you've got going.  And....that's a beautiful bunch of kids you've got!!

Thank you for responding :) I will get the ingredient list of the items I am wondering about. I know one of them is that Smart Balance margarine. There are a couple of other food items, but I will have to look at them now LOL

Thank you for the compliment on my children. They are a wonderful bunch. My oldest just turned 13 and I am starting to feel old ....

Heather