The Effects of Ready to Eat Foods to Human Health

Active, busy people often turn to processed, ready-to-eat foods for a quick meal or snack. Even though some prepacked foods are not unhealthy, according to an ABC News article, most have ingredients that contribute to obesity, heart disease and overall poor health. Trans fats, sodium and high fructose corn syrup are three common and potentially harmful ingredients in ready-to-eat foods that are unhealthy.

Trans Fats

• Trans fats are very common in ready-to-eat foods and can have devastating effects on the human body. Trans fats are made by hydrogenating vegetable oil, and they are used in prepared foods to give them a longer shelf life. High consumption of trans fats can lead to high cholesterol, which increases the risk of heart attack and other heart problems.

Sodium

• Consuming too much salt can contribute to hypertension and heart disease.

  While salt is necessary for human health, in large quantities it is harmful. Prepared foods often have high amounts of sodium to impart flavor and preserve the food. Seventy-five percent of the salt Americans eat comes from processed foods. High sodium intake can contribute to hypertension and heart disease.

High Fructose Corn Syrup

• High fructose corn syrup, used in place of sugar, is a common sweetener and preservative in prepared foods such as soda, juices, condiments, breads and cereal. Excessive intake of high fructose corn syrup can lead to obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease.