Hidden dangers to watch for on ingredient labels:

1. Hidden Sugars
Food companies use multiple names for added sugars to make them seem less obvious.
High-Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS)
Maltose, Dextrose, Fructose, Glucose, Sucrose
Cane Juice, Agave Nectar, Rice Syrup
Erythritol, Xylitol (in sugar-free products)

2. Artificial Sweeteners (Linked to Gut Issues & Metabolic Disorders)
Aspartame (E951)
Sucralose (E955)
Saccharin (E954)
Acesulfame K (E950)

3. Harmful Preservatives
Sodium Benzoate (E211) – May form carcinogenic benzene
BHA (E320) & BHT (E321) – Linked to hormone disruption
Sodium Nitrate/Nitrite (E250, E251) – In processed meats, linked to cancer.

4. Artificial Colors & Flavor Enhancers
MSG (Monosodium Glutamate, E621) – Causes headaches, bloating, and allergies
Artificial Colors: Tartrazine (E102), Allura Red (E129), Sunset Yellow (E110) – Linked to hyperactivity

5. Unhealthy Fats & Additives
Hydrogenated Oils (Trans Fats) – Found in margarine, snacks, and fast food
Polysorbates (E432-E436) – Used as emulsifiers but linked to gut inflammation
Carrageenan – Can cause digestive distress

6. Anti-Caking Agents & Stabilizers (Prevent Clumping but May Harm Health)
Silicon Dioxide (E551) – Used in powdered foods but may contain nanoparticles
Calcium Propionate (E282) – Common in bread, linked to digestive issues
Propyl Gallate (E310) – Preservative in fats and oils, suspected of endocrine disruption

7. Hidden Toxins in Packaged Foods
Even seemingly healthy foods can contain unwanted chemicals:
BPA (Bisphenol A) – Found in canned foods and plastic bottles; disrupts hormones
Phthalates – Found in food packaging; linked to reproductive issues
PFAS (“Forever Chemicals”) – Present in fast-food wrappers and microwave popcorn bags