Whole foods are natural, minimally processed foods free from artificial additives.
They retain most of their original nutritional value.
Whole foods include fresh produce, like apples or leafy green vegetables, whole grains, and beans.
SolStock / Getty Images
SolStock / Getty Images
Whole vs. Unprocessed vs. For example, a freshly picked apple is a whole food.
Whereas a whole apple is eaten as it’s picked, a processed apple is sliced and packaged.
Just because a food is processed doesn’t necessarily make it unhealthy.
Examples of processed foods include frozen vegetables or canned beans with no added ingredients.
Ultra-Processed Foods
Ultra-processed foodsare significantly altered from their original form.
These foods are typically highly processed through canning or adding artificial ingredients.
They often contain added sugars, salts, unhealthy fats, or preservatives.
Most ultra-processed foods come in packages.
Examples include potato chips, cookies, donuts, sugary cereals, and frozen packaged meals.
Meal planning helps establish certain boundaries to help you stick to your preferred dietary choices.
It is also associated with a more healthful diet overall.
Whole Food Snack Examples
Whole and minimally processed foods aren’t just for meals.
you might also use them to make healthy snacks.
Start by prioritizing fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins that align with your needs.
When purchasing packaged foods, read labels to avoid hidden additives or allergens that may be problematic.
Choose whole and minimally processed foods as much as possible to support your health.
You don’t have to strive for perfection.
Understanding the degree to which foods might be processed can help you prioritize those with more nutritional value.
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