Processed foods and fast foods have bigger health risks than you might think

Fast foods and processed foods have bigger health risks than you might think. The problem with fast foods is the calories and amount of salt. The problem with processed foods is the nitrates, nitrites and other chemicals used to preserve them. Avoid them if you can!

Researchers looked at nearly 2,000 fast food items at 10 chains over a 30-year period. They found that fast foods are even less healthy today than they were 30 years ago. Fast food items have more fat and more salt; they also weigh more. 

And, the New York Times reports that menu-labeling has not been as much of a help as people thought it might be. Surprisingly, the typical dessert in 2016 has 186 more calories than in 1986. French fries have a lot more salt, even though the portion is about the same as it always has been.

Deli meats are also bad for you, according to the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR). Eating even a small portion of deli meats increases your risks of stomach and colorectal cancer. Deli meats include all meats that are smoked, salted, cured or have other preservatives–bacon, hot dogs, ham, and bologna, as well as sliced turkey from the deli counter.

Additionally, the AICR warns that red meat, including beef, pork and lamb, can increase your risk of colorectal cancer. It advises not to eat more than 18 ounces a week.

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