On first glance, one may think this is ridiculously obvious. What else would anyone eat, but food? But with this simple statement, Pollan introduces a basic concept contained in his books. Much of what is eaten in the modern diet is overly-processed and factory-produced and contains an incredible array of added chemicals and unhealthy ingredients. Many ingredients are chemically altered. Two ingredients that I avoid at all costs are hydrogenated or trans-fats, and high-fructose corn syrup. More on these in future posts.
We just eat too many pre-packaged "convenience foods" and "fast food," instead of preparing fresh food from fresh natural ingredients. In addition to chemical additives, factory-produced processed foods contain added fats and sugars, and replace whole grains with refined grains. Is it a coincidence that obesity, heart disease, and diabetes have trended upward at the same time as the prolifieration of processed foods?
We just eat too many pre-packaged "convenience foods" and "fast food," instead of preparing fresh food from fresh natural ingredients. In addition to chemical additives, factory-produced processed foods contain added fats and sugars, and replace whole grains with refined grains. Is it a coincidence that obesity, heart disease, and diabetes have trended upward at the same time as the prolifieration of processed foods?
Pollan makes a statement that "Most of these items don't deserve to be called food-- I call them edible foodlike substances." Hence, the Number 1 rule is simply "Eat Food!"
2 comments:
It's so true that what we think of as "food" is not soil-based and grown in factories instead of farms.
Love the new Friday feature, Vern.
Thanks, Anne; I'm glad you like it!
Michael Pollan's other books are so good, and we just recently picked up "Food Rules." The way the theme of each chapter is introduced by a catchy, quotable "rule," made it perfect for a feature.
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