Diet plays a big role in health. The foods that we put into our bodies have an impact on our brains, hearts, guts, immune systems, skin, and so much more. But while some foods have a positive effect (hello, nutrient-dense plant-based whole foods), when consumed to excess, others aren’t so good. Eating too much saturated fat, salt, and sugar in processed foods and sweet treats can increase the risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
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Right now, Americans aren’t getting enough of the good stuff, research suggests. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, just one in 10 adults in the US are eating enough fruits and vegetables. And many of us are relying too much on the not-so-good stuff. The Western Pattern Diet (similar to the Standard American Diet) is high in fried foods, processed…