I was having a conversation with my roommate about this subject the other day, and I realised that many do not know how these added ingredients can affect our health. We just assume they are safe because the authorities say they are?  

For me, I have never trusted the authorities, in-fact, I have less faith in them every single day. While I still think that many are trying to do the right thing, I can't help be critical and take my health into my own hands. I was bought up to trust and listen to your body. It is smart and when you give it the right tools, it thrives! 

Flavours and colours are commonly added to food products to enhance their taste, appearance, and overall appeal to consumers. While large industrial authorities consider many food additives as safe for consumption, there are potential dangers associated with certain flavours and colours. Derived from genetically modified foods like corn, soy and wheat in order to make them last longer on the shelves, be more appealing physically and of course, increase the taste. These synthetics are not real and should not be allowed in our foods. These are only some of the many potential risks that colours and flavours can cause. 

1. Allergic Reactions: Some food colours and flavours can cause allergic reactions in susceptible individuals. For example, artificial food dyes like tartrazine (Yellow 5) and azo dyes (synthetic dyes) have been linked to allergic reactions, including hives, asthma, and even anaphylaxis in rare cases. Natural flavors and colors derived from common allergens like nuts or fruits can also trigger allergic reactions.

2. Hyperactivity and Behavioral Issues: Certain artificial food colors, particularly those known as "azo dyes," have been associated with hyperactivity and behavioral problems, especially in children. Wondering why you kids goes crazy after every kids birthday party? Research suggests that these dyes, such as Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6, may exacerbate symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in susceptible individuals.

3. Carcinogenic Potential: Some artificial food colors have raised concerns about their potential carcinogenic effects. For example, certain studies have linked Red 3 (Erythrosine) and Red 40 (Allura Red) to an increased risk of cancer in animals.

4. Health Effects of Flavour Enhancers: Some flavour enhancers, such as monosodium glutamate (MSG, also known as flavour enhancer 621), have been associated with adverse health effects. While MSG is generally recognised as 'safe' by regulatory authorities, some people may experience symptoms like headaches, flushing, sweating, and chest discomfort, collectively known as "Chinese Restaurant Syndrome," after consuming foods containing high levels of MSG. These same authorities also said the above mentioned flavours and colours were safe...before they weren't. Think critically and opt out on this consuming one.  

5. Misleading Nutritional Value: The addition of artificial flavours and colours can sometimes mask the poor quality or nutritional deficiencies of certain food products. Bright colours or appealing flavours may make unhealthy or low-quality foods more attractive, leading to overconsumption and a potentially imbalanced diet.

So. How to avoid these? 

1. Read Food Labels: Pay attention to the ingredients on food labels. This is something I tell my clients all the time. Concentrate on if it real food or not. If you don't recognise it, don't buy it. Look out for artificial and natural colours (often identified by their numerical codes) and natural flavours.

2. Choose Natural Alternatives: I don't mean 'natural flavours' either, you can read about how many ingredients are actually in a 'natural flavour' here. Opt for foods and beverages that are real! Not a synthetic creation. A great example of this is rather than pink colouring, they use real freeze dried beetroot to create the colour they are after.

3. Eat Real Foods. Do I need to be any more clear? Eating in is always a safe way to avoid, but we all are not perfect, so just opt for real food and avoid the asian style MSG places and deep fried KFC type ones. 
   
   
4. Buy quality and buy food based supplements like Wild Collagen Reds... Yes I'm bias, but I made this product because of just that! Seriously it's so good and tastes amazing. There is so much crap found in supplements these days, so if its up to my standards, it will be up to yours!