Diet tips: 6 ways removing food additives help prevent common lifestyle diseases

Health risks of food additives: Foods loaded with additives can cause blood sugar spikes and energy crashes. Cleaner foods give your body steady energy and may improve focus and mood (Image: Canva)

Have you started eating healthy? With so many processed foods filling shelves, health problems are on the rise. From digestive issues to chronic illnesses, the connection between food and health is becoming harder to ignore. One shift that’s becoming popular is the move toward additive-free eating; a choice many are making to prevent health problems before they start.

Most people choose food based on speed and ease. Ready meals, snacks, and bottled drinks are everywhere, and they save time. However, many are packed with artificial preservatives, food colourings, thickeners, and taste boosters. These additives help food last longer and taste better, but studies have linked long-term use to inflammation, hormone changes, digestive problems, and even some cancers. That’s why more consumers are looking for clean, simple ingredients they can trust.

Additive-free foods don’t use synthetic preservatives, colours, or flavours. They’re made from basic, whole ingredients that are close to their natural form. According to Dr Dhara Panchal, Founder & Director, Nitzana, “Eating additive-free means choosing products made without unnecessary chemicals. Traditional cooking methods using ingredients like jaggery, cold-pressed oils, and rock salt. These are both healthy and safe.”

Also read | Health risks of ultra-processed foods and why it’s important to swap them for healthier options

Dr Panchal suggests 6 ways additive-free foods may support your health:

• Reduce long-term inflammation: Some additives can trigger ongoing inflammation in the body. Inflammation is linked to heart disease, joint issues, and diabetes. Eating clean can help lower this risk.

• Support gut health: Additives can disturb the balance of good bacteria in your gut. Whole foods, especially those with natural fiber, help your digestive system stay balanced.

• Improve nutrient absorption: When food is overly processed, the body may struggle to absorb nutrients. Additive-free meals help your body take in vitamins and minerals more efficiently.

• Limit chemical exposure: Your body doesn’t know what to do with many synthetic additives. Cutting them out helps reduce stress on your liver, kidneys, and immune system.

• Boost energy and mood: Foods loaded with additives can cause blood sugar spikes and energy crashes. Cleaner foods give your body steady energy and may improve focus and mood.

• Reduce dependency on medication: Eating real food supports natural healing, says Dr Panchal. “This means fewer health problems in the future, and potentially less need for medication,” she adds.