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The Impact of an Increasingly Processed Diet on Human Health

Processed foods have become increasingly prevalent in our diets as time has progressed. This is largely due to the fact that these foods provide convenience to the masses, as they are far easier to cook, eat and even transport than less processed foods such as fruits, vegetables and grains. As our diets have become richer in processed foods, there has been an associated impact on our health; this paper will discuss this impact (both positive and negative) and will provide conclusions and recommendations.

The most obvious positive impact that the wide availability of processed foods has had on human health is in the reduction of widespread hunger. As the cost of purchasing processed groceries has generally decreased, our global population has been able to reduce their overall caloric expenditure; this has enabled populations to have access to higher caloric and nutritional diets, thus reducing their risk of malnutrition and its attendant illnesses. This increased availability of processed foods has arguably been the major cause of the population growth which the world has witnessed over the last century or so.

Unfortunately, there has been a concurrent rise in the prevalence of major illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease and some types of cancer. While it is impossible to completely isolate the impact of processed foods on these diseases, there is substantive scientific evidence to suggest that increasing consumption of these products is a large contributor. Processed foods are often higher in sugar, sodium and fat than their less-processed equivalents and these components are associated with high levels of cardiovascular risk and the development of type 2 diabetes. In addition, many processed foods contain ultra-processed carbohydrates and high fructose corn syrup, compounds which are linked to increased incidences of metabolic diseases such as obesity, fatty liver disease and gout.

In conclusion, it is clear that the increasing prevalence of processed foods in our diets has had an impact on human health, both positive and negative. The most obvious positive effect has been an increased availability of sustenance to the global population. At the same time, it is expected that there will continue to be increases in major illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease and cancer due to the high content of sugar, sodium and fat contained in most processed food products. The best advice available is to limit the amount of processed foods consumed and to focus on plant-based options wherever possible; this should reduce the negative impact of processed food consumption while still allowing access to the convenience they offer.

Dairy products are quite sustaining, but can come with some costly side effects, depending on ones diet. Dairy products are particularly high in saturated fat and cholesterol, making them not ideal for those with heart disease or high cholesterol. Dairy products are also fairly acidic, which can cause problems for those suffering from acid reflux. Additionally, dairy products contain lactose, which can be difficult to digest for those with lactose intolerance.

Not only can dairy products cause stomach issues, but they can also be inflammatory for some. Dairy is often a major source of ACE inhibitors, which are a type of acid found in cows milk that may trigger autoantibody reactions and other problems. Additionally, high levels of dairy consumption may lead to inflammation related illnesses such as Crohns disease, high blood pressure, and even Type 2 diabetes.

Due to these issues, many people have begun to consider dairy-free alternatives. Many non-dairy milk options are now available, including almond milk, coconut milk, oat milk, and hemp milk. Additionally, dairy-free products such as cheese, butter, and ice cream can be found at most health food stores. Even yogurt is now available in a variety of dairy-free options.

Shifting to a dairy-free diet can be beneficial for many, but it is important to make sure to get enough calcium, vitamin D and other nutrients that are typically found in dairy products. For example, you may replace milk with fortified plant-based milks or take a supplement or eat vitamin D-fortified foods such as mushrooms, seeds, and cereal. Fortunately, there is a wide variety of dairy-free substitutes that can help to keep you healthy and provide you the same amount of any important nutrients that dairy products offer.