Have you ever noticed how our bodies operate under the principle of balance? In order for us to enjoy optimal wellness, all of our systems must be in harmony, both within themselves, and as part of the entire system – our body.
Sorry to use a cliche, but, “we are what we eat.” The foods we take in greatly affect how we feel, and how well or poorly our bodies work. When we eat whole, nourishing foods, in an ideal variety, we thrive. In contrast, if we dine on unhealthy foods, balance is broken.
The following are ten foods that can throw your system out of whack, resulting in an unbalanced state of health.
1. Unfermented soy
Soy that has not been fermented (such as soy milk, and the type found in many processed foods) is high in phytoestrogens, which may act as estrogens inside the body, and lead to a state of estrogen dominance.
Estrogen dominance is linked to breast cancer, infertility, lowered sex drive, and uterine fibroids in women. In men, estrogen dominance may lead to a condition known as gynecomastia, where men’s breast tissue swells, and emotional changes are experienced.
2. Wheat products
Yes, even those whole wheat breads and pastas. Part of the gluten protein found in wheat is called gliadin. Gliadin has been linked to worsening behavioral and neurological conditions including ADHD.
On top of that, wheat has been found to be highly inflammatory – and inflammation is a major cause of system-wide imbalance.
3. Processed meats
All that sausage, bacon, and deli meat can wreak havoc on your colon. As we previously reported, a 2013 study found that one third of the world’s population may be put at a higher risk of colorectal cancer by eating processed meat products.
4. Anything packed with sugar (or high fructose corn syrup)
Sugar is a major cause of inflammation, which can make all systems go awry. It has also been linked to diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and obesity. A balanced diet is one with no added sugars.
5. “Sugar-free” foods
All those processed products that taste sweet, but boast no sugar, are likely teeming with artificial sweeteners, including aspartame. Aspartame has been linked to all sorts of imbalances, including neurotoxic properties, and symptoms such as vomiting and seizures.
6. Anything with MSG
Monosodium glutamate, or MSG, has been linked to neurtotoxic properties, as well as to the obesity epidemic. For some individuals, it can be highly addictive.
7. Anything dyed a color not found in nature
Artificial colorings have been linked to behavioral changes, including hyperactivity, in children. They have also been associated with the potential for severe allergic reactions, and some have been linked to cancers in lab studies.
8. Deep-fried foods
Deep-fried foods (baked goods, french fries etc.), contain compounds known as acrylamides, which are byproducts of the high heat frying process. The Environmental Protection Agency classifies an acrylamide as a “probable human carcinogen,” and links them to “central and peripheral nervous system damage.”
9. Conventionally-raised meat and poultry
While organic, grass-fed meat and organic, free-range poultry have many health benefits, the conventionally raised varieties are pumped full of potentially harmful stuff. This includes antibiotics, growth hormones and GMO byproducts from their feed.
10. Some canned foods
Although some manufacturers are phasing it out, some cans used in canning foods still contain bisphenol A, or BPA. This compound, found in many plastic products, has been linked by a body of research to disrupting the endocrine system.
To maintain an ideal state of balance in your body, stick to whole, fresh, organic foods, drink plenty of water, get exercise doing something you love, and just say no to the junk and boxed stuff – it’ll throw you off.
-The Alternative Daily
Sources:
http://www.healthy-holistic-living.com/ph-balance-and-health.html#sthash.heMgN8YA.dpbs
