Body-influencing factors include junk foods and other substances that have a negative influence. These include packaged and boxed foods, alcohol, caffeine, drugs, hormones, pesticides, preservatives, artificial sweeteners, artificial coloring, trans fats, and MSG. Many of these substances can damage the liver, which is like a filter that keeps the body clean.

Avoid Mono-sodium Glutamate (MSG): MSG is a flavor enhancer, but it causes fluid retention. There are many hidden sources of MSG: modified food starch, autolyzed yeast, calcium caseinate, sodium caseinate, hydrolyzed protein, hydrolyzed vegetable protein, carrageenan, glutamic acid and yeast extract. MSG is abundant in many restaurant foods, taco mixes, sauces, gravies, boxed food, soups and dressings, so it’s important to read labels carefully.

Avoid synthetic vitamins: Unfortunately, most vitamins sold are made synthetically. This means they are not made from actual food, but from chemicals and petroleum. In nature, vitamins come in complexes composed of many parts, never in isolation or in high concentrations.

Avoid anything artificial: This includes artificial sweeteners and sugar alcohols (including Splenda). It also includes artificial colors, flavors, high fructose corn syrup, and hydrogenated and partially hydrogenated oils. If you need a sweetener, use the herb Stevia. Below are common processed foods to avoid, with healthy alternatives listed next to them.

©Berg Institute for Health & Wellness

Hidden Water Retainers and Substitutes

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