One of the simplest breakfast options is bread and butter. But what if you learned that this breakfast meal is unhealthy? These food items are ultra-processed and can lead to major health issues like diabetes, obesity, or even stroke.
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) issued the latest dietary guideline for Indians stating that bread, butter, cooking oil, and milk-based health drinks are all highly processed foods that can lead to severe health complications.
Let's get into the details of what ultra-processed food means. Ultra-processed food means products significantly altered from their original form through various industrial processes. They contain multiple ingredients that are not safe to consume or not commonly used while cooking. This includes artificial flavors, colors, sweeteners, etc. that are added to increase food flavor and shelf life. A few examples are ready-to-eat meals, fast food, packaged snacks, sugary beverages, and breakfast cereals.
Characteristics of Ultra-Processed Foods:
High levels of added sugar, fat, and salt: These ingredients are added to enhance flavor and appeal but can lead to heart disease, obesit,y and diabetes.
Low nutritional value: Processed foods do not have the required nutritional value. They are filled with high calories but they lack essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Ample usage of additives:They don't contain ingredients found in traditional or minimally processed foods rather they have synthetic materials in them.
Highly palatable and convenient: These processed foods are easy to consume and highly appealing, especially to children which can lead to overconsumption.
Side Effects of Ultra-Processed Foods:
The ICMR states that these ultra-processed foods are abnormally high in fats and low in essential nutrients like fiber. These foods can accelerate aging and also lead to obesity and are associated with a higher risk of diabetes, strokes, and heart attack. Overall, these foods harm our health.
It is strictly advised by the ICMR to avoid overconsumption of 'level C' foods that are high in sugars and salts and/or have been processed extensively that break down essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Such processes include over-refining of flours, juicing of fruits, subjecting food items to high temperatures and pressures, and canning & preservation.
The ICMR's guidelines highlight the importance of consuming such foods in moderation and avoiding them as much as possible to maintain better health and overall well-being.
Bread and butter are a quick and convenient breakfast choice but you should also keep in mind the health risks associated with these highly processed food stuffs. The ICMR's guidelines highlight the importance of consuming such foods in moderation and avoiding them as much as possible to maintain better health and overall well-being.
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/Aditi Madathingal/MSM)