Almost all processed foods in the supermarkets contain additives called “emulsifiers”.  They are added to many foods such as non-dairy milks, baked goods, ice cream, salad dressings and even hamburger patties.

Some common names of emulsifiers include carrageenan, lecithin, polysorbate 80, xanthan gum and other “gums”.  Emulsifiers are used to extend the shelf life of packaged food, improve texture and to keep ingredients (oils and fats) from separating.

Emulsifiers Damage the Gut

Your gut is the key to your immune system.  The greatest concentration of microbes (bacteria and fungi) in your body reside in your gut and help keep you healthy.  There is mounting evidence to suggest that emulsifiers are creating considerable damage to the digestive tract.

In a recent study, mice (some with normal immune systems and some with abnormal), were fed emulsifiers through food and water.  Some were given very minimal amounts, and others were give quantities that would mirror what a person eating a lot of processed food would eat.  All mice developed physical problems.  The group with normal immune systems developed metabolic syndrome symptoms including obesity, insulin resistance, hyperglycemia and intestinal inflammation. The mice with abnormal immune systems developed chronic colitis (inflammation of the inner lining of the colon).

Andrew Gewirtz, Georgia State University Professor of Biology, has been studying the increase in metabolic syndrome for several years. He believes that the chemistry of the emulsifiers disturb the bacteria normally present in the gut, as well as the gut’s protective mucus layer. Gewirtz has observed  that the increase of food additives roughly parallels the increase in obesity and inflammatory bowel disease.

Beware of “Organic” and “Non-GMO” Foods

Many organic and non-GMO processed foods like non-dairy milks and deserts also contain these emulsifiers.  They are considered “GRAS” (Generally Recognized As Safe) by the FDA and are even allowed in “healthy” food.

The FDA is not ensuring the American public have safe food to eat.  Thais is perfectly obvious from their support of GMO’s, thousands of food additives and other chemicals.  You are the only person you should trust to police the ingredients in your food.  Be safe.  Read labels.  Eat real food.

To your Health!

Peter Gillham