Bad Effects of Chemicals in Our Food

Food contains nutrients essential for health, but it may also include chemicals that can increase your risk of disease. These chemicals can include pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, preservatives, artificial colors and flavors, and industrially produced fats and sweeteners. Not all of these substances may appear on the food product label.

Pesticides

Fruits and vegetables that contain pesticide residues can be a health risk for people of all ages. Research by scientists at the Harvard University School of Public Health published in “Pediatrics" in June 20101 discovered exposure to organophosphates may contribute to the prevalence of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children. Children who switch to organic produce no longer have significant levels of organophosphates in their urine, according to research by scientists at Emory University published in "Environmental Health Perspectives" in April 2008. Exposure to a combination of the pesticide maneb and the herbicide paraquat increases risks of Parkinson’s disease, especially in young people, according to research by scientists at the University of California in Berkeley published in the "American Journal of Epidemiology" in April 2009.

Preservatives

What Are the Dangers of Preservatives?

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Manufacturers use preservatives such as nitrites and sulfites in processed foods to inhibit growth of microorganisms and increase shelf life. Yet these preservatives increase your health risk. Nitrites are common preservatives used in processed meats and fish to prevent bacterial growth. Your body converts nitrites to carcinogenic substances called nitrosamines. Research by Susanna Larsson at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm published in the "International Journal of Cancer" in August 2006 found that increased nitrosamine consumption from processed meat increases the risk of stomach cancer. Sulfites used to preserve dried fruits, fruit juices, wine and beer may increase the risk of asthma attacks, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

Artificial Colors

Artificial colors increase consumer appeal but may also increase your risk of disease. The Center for Science in the Public Interest, a consumer advocacy group, reports that caramel coloring used in many popular cola soft drinks contains two chemicals called 2-methylimidazole and 4-methylimadazole that cause cancers of the lungs, liver and thyroid and leukemia. Food colorings such as Yellow No. 5, 6 and10 and Red No. 40 can increase the risk of or exacerbate hyperactive behavior in children.

Fats and Sweeteners

The Disadvantages of High Saturated Fat Levels

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Industrially produced fats and sweeteners common in processed foods are bad for your health. Manufacturers use transfats -- which increase your risk of coronary artery disease -- in breads, cookies, margarine and microwave popcorn. High-fructose corn syrup, a sweetener used in soft drinks, salad dressings and desserts, can increase your risk of obesity, according to research by scientists at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge published in "The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition" in April 2004. Piedmont Hospital in Atlanta reports eating high-fructose corn syrup can increase your risk of diabetes.