Alright, let’s get real. This whole conversation started because I mentioned my oldest son can’t handle processed foods—like, at all. The reaction isn’t just physical; it messes with him mentally and behaviorally too. And someone asked, “What’s not processed these days?” And, honestly, they’re not wrong! Think about it: every time we butcher a chicken or chop up a veggie, we’re technically processing it. But there’s a world of difference between roasting a home-raised chicken and a frozen pizza pumped full of who-knows-what.
So what does it actually mean to say “processed” when we’re talking about food health? And what the heck is a “whole food” anyway?
Let’s break it down. Because here’s the thing: understanding the difference can change everything about what we’re putting into our bodies.
When I say “processed foods,” I’m talking about the stuff packed with preservatives, artificial flavors, colors, and sugar. We’re talking Ramen noodles, pizza rolls, bright orange cheese puffs, even some innocent-seeming things like store-bought peanut butter. Basically, most of what’s in the middle aisles of the grocery store! That kind of food might be cheap and convenient, but it’s a “food-like” substance more than real food.
Now, don’t get me wrong—these foods are designed to taste good. They hit all the right spots: the salt, the crunch, the sweetness. But here’s the kicker: they’re almost entirely empty calories. They give us none of the natural stuff our bodies need and are instead packed with stuff we don’t. And over time, they contribute to all kinds of issues—high blood pressure, high cholesterol, insulin resistance. The sad reality? They’re just not good for us.
Whole foods, on the other hand, are basically the real deal. They’re the fresh fruits, veggies, raw meats, cheeses, and eggs you find around the store’s edges. They’re not pumped full of dyes, flavors, or preservatives. They’re just…food. Pure and simple.
So why is it that processed foods are so bad? Well, the end result just isn’t food anymore. It’s a food substitute. Sure, it fills you up, but it’s not nourishing you. And there’s a big difference between feeling full and actually being nourished. For example, a bunch of the ingredients in processed foods—think dyes, added sugar, preservatives—have been directly linked to health problems. Sugar alone is a huge culprit. It (and carbs that turn to sugar in the body) have been shown to drive up insulin resistance, which is how we get diabetes.
Want to dive deeper into what this does to the body? There’s an amazing video with Dr. Mark Hyman and Dr. Casey Means that breaks down how processed foods wreak havoc on our bodies. If you’re curious, I really recommend watching it. They’re fantastic at explaining this stuff without sugar-coating (literally!).
And if you’re thinking, “Well, technically everything’s processed!” I get that. Yes, cooking and chopping are “processes.” But there’s a massive difference between a home-cooked meal made from whole foods and a frozen dinner that’s been preserved, flavored, and colored into submission.
Here’s how I think of it: Whole foods are what our bodies recognize as fuel. They come with the nutrients and fiber our bodies need, so we feel good, focused, and steady. It’s like fueling a car with high-quality gas versus running it on a cheap substitute. Eventually, the engine knows the difference—and so do our bodies.
If you want to eat healthier, start with the simple stuff. Shop the edges of the store, go for short ingredient lists, and cook when you can. I know, cooking takes time, but trust me, once you start eating real food, you’ll feel the difference. And, hey, if you need tips on finding whole foods or cutting out the processed stuff, come talk to us at the farm. It’s why we do what we do.
Until next time,
Traci
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