Foods made with these foods, such as hummus, sugar-free non-dairy milk, natural nut butters, simple condiments, and sauces, are also considered minimally processed foods and can be eaten with a real food diet. It is important to understand the difference between processed and ultra-processed foods. Processed foods include tuna, hummus, milk, peanut butter, canned beans, and frozen vegetables. Ultra-processed foods are those that have been prepared through an extensive industrial process, such as sugary cereals, television dinners, and canned ravioli.
When buying store-bought hummus, it is important to look at the label and check for highly processed seed oils like soybean oil or sunflower oil. These oils can be inflammatory and it is best to look for hummus made with extra virgin olive oil for the most health benefits. Processed foods have a bad reputation for sabotaging diets. However, it is important to note that processed foods are more than just boxed macaroni and cheese, French fries, and hamburgers.
Whole wheat bread, homemade soup, and minced apples are also considered processed foods. Hummus is generally a very healthy food option but there are a few things to consider when buying store-bought hummus. It is important to look at the nutritional content of hummus and its benefits. It may even be better to prepare it at home to ensure that you are actually receiving the health benefits of hummus.
When life is busy, buying nutritious food at the store is a great way to nourish your body. However, it is important to be aware of the risks associated with frequent consumption of ultra-processed foods and beverages. Research shows that those who follow diets rich in whole foods and rich in nutrients live longer and have a lower risk of developing chronic diseases than people who eat diets rich in ultra-processed foods. When buying store-bought hummus, it is important to look for brands with minimal ingredients like Whole Foods brand. It is also important to choose oats cut with organic steel as they have been processed less and have the most health benefits.
If you eat hummus as a snack, take full advantage of the health benefits with fresh raw vegetables instead of chips or crackers. Hummus can also help compensate for blood sugar spikes caused by foods with a high glycemic index according to the Johns Hopkins University Library of Medicine and Health.