We
indians love samosas and jalebi. Often we ignore them considering them bad for health, but have you ever thought how dangerous packaged or canned processed foods can be for our health? You will probably be surprised when you know that these processed foods are sometimes more harmful than our beloved desi samosas and jalebi. Nowadays you will find every kind of packaged food in the market. From chips to cookies and from instant noodles to
frozen meals. We often choose them because they are prepared quickly or seem to be an easy option. But, when it comes to our health, the truth hidden inside these shiny packets will really surprise you. The way these foods are made can make them even more harmful than our samosas and jalebi. Let's understand how….
Sugar,
salt and unhealthy fats
We know how much
sugar or
oil is in a
samosa or jalebi. We see it being made fresh, but this is not the case with processed food. These foods are often full of
sugar,
salt and trans
fats or hydrogenated oils. These things enhance the taste of the product and prevent it from spoiling for a long time, but are very harmful for our health. They increase the risk of
diabetes, obesity and high blood pressure.
Lack of nutrition and more calories
Samosa and jalebi, even if fried, still contain some basic ingredients like maida, potato or sugar. Processed food often has very little nutrients like vitamins, minerals, fiber etc. They fill the stomach, but the body does not get the necessary nutrition. Due to this, there is a gradual deficiency of nutrients in the body.
Artificial colours, flavours and preservatives: To make packaged food tasty and to keep it safe for a long time, a lot of artificial colours and flavours along with preservatives are used. Long term consumption of these chemicals can be harmful for the body. They can increase the risk of allergies, behavioural problems and some diseases.
Lack of fibre
Most processed foods have very little or no fibre. Its deficiency can cause constipation, digestive problems and poor intestinal health. Samosas contain potatoes and refined flour, which still provide some fibre. Whereas processed snacks often have little to no fibre.
Addictive nature
Processed foods are made in such a way that they are addictive. The right combination of
sugar,
salt and fat releases dopamine in your brain, which makes you want to eat them more. This makes you overeat and get addicted to unhealthy things.