The process of getting off highly processed foods
I know you want to live longer, younger. And that you are aware that it is damaging your future when you eat ultra-processed foods, loaded with preservatives and other toxins, stripped of nutrients, and filled with sugar and refined carbs. However, research shows that 73% of food sold in the U.S. is ultra-processed, and kids get 60% of their calories from it.
Avoiding this stuff isn't easy -- but it matters. Every 3 ounces a day you eat of these "foods" ups your health risks for cancer and heart and metabolic problems, according to a new study in Family Medicine and Community Health that looked at data on more than 8 million folks.
Take small forward steps. Aim to change your shopping habits, so you're cooking fresh foods from scratch. You can reduce costs (really!), avoid plastics, boost your nutrition -- and increase your healthy longevity. Get only 100% whole grain breakfast cereals with no added sugars. Opt for skinless, grilled chicken thighs instead of pre-made, breaded chicken fingers. Use canned salmon in a light, homemade tomato pasta sauce. Set a goal of cooking meals (get your kids involved with prep, too) using fresh foods and create healthy school and office lunches (no microwaving anything in plastic).
For more ideas, try recipes like Twice-Baked Eggplant Stacks with Tomato Basil Pesto and Orange Sesame Meatballs in my "What To Eat When Cookbook." And to help shed the pounds and metabolic woes that come from eating ultra-processed foods, enjoy the routines in my blog at michaelfroizenmd.substack.com.
Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at drmikerealage@gmail.com.
(c)2026 Michael Roizen, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
(c) 2026 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
Comments