Healthy Snack Conversation With Bing Copilot
by bill - 2024-08-21 ( life / health / food / recipes ) [html version]
Q: Which food preservatives allowed in the United States are the most damaging to one's health and should be avoided? [Left unsaid was the part where other, smarter countries have outlawed some of this.]
A: Several food preservatives allowed in the United States have been linked to potential health risks. Here are some of the most concerning ones:
- Brominated Vegetable Oil (BVO): Used in some sodas and sports drinks, BVO has been linked to memory loss and skin problems.
- Potassium Bromate: Found in some bread and baked goods, this chemical has been associated with an increased risk of cancer.
- Propylparaben: Used in tortillas, muffins, and other baked goods, propylparaben may affect hormone levels and has been linked to breast cancer.
- Red Dye No. 3: Commonly used in candies and baked goods, this dye has been linked to cancer in animal studies.
It's a good idea to check food labels and try to avoid these additives when possible. Do you have any specific foods or products you're concerned about?
Source: Conversation with Copilot, 8/20/2024
- 5 Dangerous Ingredients That Are in Our Food but Shouldn't Be. https://www.consumerreports.org/health/food-additives/dangerous-ingredients-that-are-in-our-food-but-shouldnt-be-a4054710317/.
- 11 Banned Foods Americans Should Stop Eating - Food Revolution Network. https://foodrevolution.org/blog/banned-ingredients-in-other-countries/.
- Processed foods make us sick. It's time for government action.. https://harvardpublichealth.org/policy-practice/processed-foods-make-us-sick-its-time-for-government-action/.
- How Safe Are Food Preservatives? - Everyday Health. https://www.everydayhealth.com/diet-nutrition/how-safe-are-food-preservatives/.
Q: Yes, trailmix type snack bars
A: When it comes to trail mix snack bars, it's important to check the ingredient list for certain preservatives that might be harmful. Here are a few to watch out for:
- BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene): Often used to preserve fats in foods, BHT has been linked to potential cancer risks and liver damage.
- TBHQ (Tertiary Butylhydroquinone): This preservative is used to extend shelf life but has been associated with vision disturbances and liver enlargement.
- Artificial Colors: Some trail mix bars contain artificial colors like Red Dye No. 40, which has been linked to hyperactivity in children and other health concerns.
For a healthier option, you might consider making your own trail mix bars at home. This way, you can control the ingredients and avoid harmful preservatives. Here are some common ingredients you can use:
- Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds, chia seeds.
- Dried Fruits: Cranberries, raisins, apricots.
- Sweeteners: Honey, maple syrup.
- Add-ins: Dark chocolate chips, coconut flakes, oats.
Would you like a simple recipe to try making your own trail mix bars?
Source: Conversation with Copilot, 8/20/2024
- Is Trail Mix Healthy? Benefits and Downsides. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/is-trail-mix-healthy.
- The easiest Trail Mix Energy Bars Recipe - Lifestyle of a Foodie. https://lifestyleofafoodie.com/trail-mix-energy-bars-recipe/.
- How to make a Trail Mix Bar - Eating on a Dime. https://www.eatingonadime.com/trail-mix-bar/.
- Trail Mix Bars Recipe - Family Dinners. https://familydinners.com/trail-mix-bars-recipe/.
- Homemade Trail Mix Bars - Bucket List Tummy. https://www.bucketlisttummy.com/easy-trail-mix-bars/.
Q: Yes, please. [it's apparently trained to appreciate good manners, seriously]
A: Great! Here's a simple recipe for homemade trail mix bars:
Homemade Trail Mix Bars
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the oats, almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds, chia seeds, cranberries, raisins, and dark chocolate chips.
- Prepare the wet mixture: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the honey, maple syrup, and coconut oil together. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
- Combine: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and mix well until everything is evenly coated.
- Press into the baking dish: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to press it down firmly and evenly.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Cool and cut: Allow the bars to cool completely in the baking dish before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Cut into bars or squares.
Enjoy your homemade trail mix bars! They make a great snack and you can customize them with your favorite ingredients.
blog version — similar posts here — ... and elsewhere
