Along with other great causes, March is honored as National Nutrition Month. Each year the American Dietetic Association chooses a theme to promote and celebrate. This years is ‘Eat Right with Color.’ I love this theme, it’s the perfect “anti-diet” message.  Focusing on eating a variety of produce not only allows for more interesting meals, but it also ensures the consumption of a variety of antioxidants and powerful phytochemicals. Phytochemicals are compounds responsible for providing food with color and the nutrients that reduce the risk of cancer or heart disease and promote vision, immune system, and healthy aging.

While I want to promote natural colors in produce, I want to caution against the use of artificial colorings. Artificial colorings are synthetic products used to give color and appeal to mostly low-nutrient foods. The problem? Artificial colorings have been shown to promote hyperactivity in some children and some studies suggest they increase cancer risk.

Thankfully, the FDA is holding a meeting on March 30th to consider the need for these toxic chemicals in our food supply. While I am skeptical on change, you can send a letter by march 23rd stating your support for removing artificial colorings.

If your interested in learning more one of my favorite organization’s, The Center for Science in the Public Interest has compiled all the studies done on artificial colorings and the risk they pose. You can see the detailed list here.  As my speciality is food sensitivity, I also see a lot of patients whose migraines/IBS/ect. are triggered by artificial colorings. See what a color-free diet can do for you!

Are you worried or concerned about artificial sweeteners?