If you're looking to reduce your exposure to artificial food dyes, there are five steps you can take to get started.
Opt for organic
. The Department of Agriculture does not permit the use of artificial colors in foods that it certifies as organic. This is a great way to make sure you're not consuming any artificial dyes.Cut down on packaged foods
, particularly those marketed to children.Some studies have even suggested a link between food colorings, which cause the release of histamines, part of the body's immune system, and allergies, as well as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), which affects 5.2 million American children. It can be hard to make a drastic lifestyle change all at once, not to mention that processed foods are often cheaper than organic products and are also addictive, making it difficult to eliminate them from your diet. However, if you can gradually reduce your consumption of packaged foods, you can significantly reduce your exposure to artificial dyes.
Check labels
. Even if a product is not certified organic, you can still look at the label for any artificial dyes. If you see any listed, it's best to avoid that product.Go for natural alternatives
.There are many natural alternatives to artificial dyes that you can use in cooking and baking. For example, turmeric can be used to give food a yellow color, while beets can be used to give food a red color.Stay informed. It's important to stay up-to-date on the potential health risks associated with artificial dyes. Research the latest studies and talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.
