I feel drawn towards organic natural foods. Could the build up of the scary sounding ingredients of processed foods and pesticides be linked to weight gain - or a lack of energy?
I'd love to hear about anyone's experience of a renewed energy and vitality.
Hi Dreamcatcher
It's been a while since I stopped eating processed food and I believe that my health and energy levels have improved.
There has been some research demonstrating that certain additives can damage the way the gut works, leading to health and weight problems. The research was done on rats, but I know that I react very badly to certain additives in food, as my guts have already been damaged by a problem with gluten.
This is one article about it.
nature.com/news/food-preser...
Pesticide levels on food are strictly regulated, and the evidence on whether or not to eat organic food is up for debate, I think. I've not come across any link with weight gain but we are all affected differently by what we eat. I like to eat organic when I can.
Hi Dreamcatcher67,
I don't tend to buy organic foods, but I do try to avoid processed foods wherever possible, and tend to choose foods in their natural forms - i.e. fruits and vegetables, whole grains, pulses, and fish and chicken. I like to cook from scratch, and I like to know what ingredients are in a particular meal - e.g. making soup myself so I know there aren't any added preservatives or additives (other than the things I put in it myself!). I love using fresh or dried spices to add flavour to meals.
I definitely feel that I have more energy as a result of doing this - and that's a good feeling.
I also buy produce that is locally grown, so less likely to have travelled miles as well, and I think it is fresher as a result. Seasonal things are particularly fresh and delicious.
We're lucky to have access to so many tasty vegetables and fruits and healthy foods.
I hope you're enjoying your weekend.
Lowcal 
I too have stopped eating processed foods and have found an increase in health and energy levels. I dont buy organic but I do eat fresh. If you buy frozen you have to watch the added sugar and salt. I am also looking into making my porridge with fruit teas. I make it with water and add spice at the moment. I need variety of flavour and as tea only has 3-4cals per bag I think this might be a route to try without adding salt or sugar. I have made it with ordinary tea and liked it.
I eat organic food most of the time and I believe I am so much healthier. I don't know if its a psychological thing but I've definitely got more energy and have a spring in my step.
Not to mention it tastes soooo much better.
Desperate 
Slimming groups
5 days of dieting and...
Utterly ridiculous I know but.........
