Hi everyone...

I've been a healthy eater for a long time now..but I've been wanting to cut out most processed foods from my diet, the only problem is I'm not 100% sure what is processed and what isn't. I know most pre-packaged foods are, but is there something on the ingredient list that should be a tip-off? If the ingredient list doesn't have any crazy words or anything is it not processed?? I'm confused!! Help anyone! Thanks :)

There is no clear distinction. Technically, anything cooked has been "processed", but most "experts" do not advocate eating everything raw. Same with all your frozen veggies. So, it takes a little discernment; and not everyone is going to agree 100 percent. For example, I would call all the soy hot dogs, soy cheese, soy pastrami, etc., overly processed [the fact that I am not a big fan of soy aside], others would not. Some consider anything made with flour (whole grain or otherwise) to be overly processed.

But most would agree on avoiding most of the prepared, packaged or frozen meals; most prepared canned foods (the pasta stuff, I would include most soups); luncheon meats. I'm sure I'm forgetting a lot.

The Closer the food looks like its natural state the Less it has been processed.