Chemical Culprits: Food Additives that are Subtracting From Your Health
The other day, I was doing a Pantry Purge for a client—a mom of three who was trying so hard to make the best choices for her family. She’d swapped white bread for whole wheat, cut back on sugary drinks, and even started reading ingredient labels. But as we went through her pantry, she kept saying, “Wait…this isn’t healthy?”
I get it. The food industry has done a phenomenal job of making junk food look healthy with words like “natural,” “whole grain,” and “heart-healthy.” But when you dig into the actual ingredients, you’ll find a lineup of preservatives, additives, and chemicals that are doing your body zero favors.
Many of these ingredients are endocrine disruptors, meaning they mess with your hormones, metabolism, and overall health. Others drive inflammation, insulin resistance, and digestive issues—and you’re likely consuming them every single day.
So let’s break down the 7 most common food additives, where they’re hiding, and why you’ll want to kick them to the curb.
1. High-Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS) – The Metabolism Wrecker
• Found in: Sodas, flavored yogurts, salad dressings, ketchup, granola bars, and most packaged sweets.
• Why it’s a problem: HFCS is metabolized differently than regular sugar, going straight to the liver, where it contributes to fatty liver disease, insulin resistance, and weight gain. It also disrupts hunger hormones, making you crave more food instead of feeling satisfied.
• Swap it out: Look for raw honey, maple syrup, or fruit as natural sweeteners.
2. Sodium Nitrite & Sodium Nitrate – The Cancer Concern
• Found in: Processed meats like bacon, hot dogs, sausages, deli meats, and cured meats.
• Why it’s a problem: When nitrates mix with stomach acid, they can form nitrosamines, which have been linked to colorectal cancer (WHO classifies processed meats as a Group 1 carcinogen).
• Endocrine impact: These additives may contribute to chronic inflammation and metabolic dysfunction over time.
• How to avoid it: Choose nitrate-free or “uncured” meats and pair processed meats with vitamin C-rich foods, which help block nitrosamine formation.
3. Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) – The Overeating Trigger
• Found in: Chips, canned soups, fast food, processed meats, and snack foods.
• Why it’s a problem: MSG is an excitotoxin, meaning it overstimulates brain cells, which can lead to headaches, nausea, brain fog, and even addictive eating patterns.
• Endocrine impact: It triggers insulin spikes, which over time can contribute to blood sugar crashes and metabolic dysfunction.
• Swap it out: Check labels for MSG, hydrolyzed protein, autolyzed yeast extract, or “natural flavors.”
4. Artificial Sweeteners – The Gut and Hormone Disruptors
• Found in: “Diet” sodas, sugar-free gum, flavored waters, protein bars, and anything labeled sugar-free.
• Why it’s a problem: Aspartame, sucralose, and saccharin can disrupt gut bacteria, leading to glucose intolerance, increased cravings, and potential neurological effects.
• Endocrine impact: Artificial sweeteners confuse your body’s insulin response, leading to increased hunger and fat storage despite being “zero-calorie.”
• Swap it out: Stick to monk fruit, stevia, or raw honey in moderation.
5. Artificial Food Dyes – The Hyperactivity & Inflammation Culprits
• Found in: Candy, cereals, sodas, sports drinks, fruit snacks, and flavored yogurts.
• Why it’s a problem: Studies link Red 40, Yellow 5, and Blue 1 to hyperactivity in children, behavioral issues, and increased inflammation. Some dyes are even banned in Europe because of their health risks.
• Endocrine impact: Chronic inflammation affects hormone balance, particularly thyroid function and insulin sensitivity.
• Swap it out: Choose foods with natural colorings like beet juice, turmeric, or spirulina.
6. BHA & BHT – The Hormone Disruptors
• Found in: Cereals, chips, butter spreads, and processed snacks.
• Why it’s a problem: These preservatives mimic estrogen in the body, meaning they can disrupt hormone balance and increase the risk of metabolic issues and reproductive health concerns.
• How it impacts hormones: The Endocrine Society has classified BHA as a potential endocrine disruptor because it interferes with hormone signaling.
• Swap it out: Look for BHA/BHT-free labels and opt for brands that use natural preservatives like vitamin E or rosemary extract.
7. Sodium Benzoate – The Benzene Risk
• Found in: Soft drinks, fruit juices, salad dressings, and pickles.
• Why it’s a problem: When combined with vitamin C, it can form benzene, a known carcinogen linked to DNA damage and oxidative stress.
• Endocrine impact: Oxidative stress has been shown to increase cortisol (stress hormone) levels, which can contribute to metabolic dysfunction and weight gain.
• Swap it out: Avoid drinks with sodium benzoate and choose fresh, homemade dressings and whole foods.
The Bigger Picture: Why This Matters
Your hormones, metabolism, gut health, and immune function are all connected. When these chemical additives disrupt your endocrine system, they can lead to:
✅ Unexplained weight gain
✅ Fatigue & brain fog
✅ Mood swings & anxiety
✅ Blood sugar crashes & sugar cravings
✅ Increased risk of metabolic diseases
The good news? You have control over what goes into your cart and onto your plate.
How to Take Action
✔ Start small: Swap one processed food for a cleaner option each week.
✔ Read labels: If you can’t pronounce it, reconsider eating it.
✔ Prioritize whole foods: Fresh veggies, fruits, proteins, and healthy fats will always be your best bet.
✔ Need help? This is what I do. Book a session with me at Five Foundations Wellness, and let’s clean up your pantry, balance your hormones, and get you feeling amazing again.
Final Thoughts
The food industry isn’t going to change overnight, but you can change what you put in your body starting today. Your health is too important to leave in the hands of food manufacturers who prioritize profits over well-being.
Small changes lead to big results. What swap will you start with today?
