Biting off more than you can endure

Almost 60% of most Americans' calories come from ultra-processed foods -- stripped of nutrition and packed with refined carbs, sugars, salt, unhealthy fats and unpronounceable chemical ingredients. And, according to a paper presented at an American College of Cardiology-Asia meeting, that's a recipe for disaster.

The researchers looked at data on more than 8 million folks and found that over the years, each additional 3 ounces of ultra-processed food that you eat ups your risk of high blood pressure by more than 14%, cardiovascular events by almost 6% and boosts digestive diseases by more than 19%.

What does that mean for your long-term health? Well, if you frequently eat a 6-ounce deli meat sandwich on two 1-ounce pieces of white bread with a 1-ounce bag of chips, you could TRIPLE your risk for a heart attack and gut problems.

You want your foods to be fresh and unaltered from their natural state -- steam or saute tasty veggies like mushrooms, onions and tomatoes and broil or roast proteins (fish and skinless chicken) with herbs and spices. When eating lunch out -- even on the run -- look for salads with salmon or broiled chicken and dressings without added sugar, milk/cream, cheese or bacon. Enjoy sandwiches made from grilled or broiled skinless chicken or fish, on truly 100% whole-grain bread, and lentil or vegetables soups.

America deserves a healthy, productive population that embraces the challenges of the day with a clear mind and a strong constitution. Let's all take a pledge to make ourselves as healthy as possible.

Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.longevityplaybook.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@longevityplaybook.com.

(c)2023 Michael Roizen, M.D.

Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.


(c) 2025 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.