Glazed Turkey Tenderloins with whipped sweet potatoes and dressing

Soybean Oil

A ubiquitous vegetable oil high in Omega-6 fatty acids. Excessive consumption of Omega-6s without balancing Omega-3s can promote systemic inflammation in the body.

Carrageenan

A thickening agent derived from red seaweed. While natural, it has been linked to gastrointestinal inflammation, bloating, and may worsen symptoms of IBS.

Sodium Phosphate

Used in processed meats and cheese to maintain moisture. High intake is dangerous for people with kidney issues and can weaken bones by leaching calcium.

Maltodextrin

A highly processed white powder from corn or wheat. It has a higher Glycemic Index than table sugar (spiking insulin rapidly) and can suppress good gut bacteria.

Dextrose

A simple sugar chemically identical to glucose. It absorbs instantly into the bloodstream, causing rapid energy spikes and crashes. Often used as a filler.

Canola Oil

A highly processed industrial oil extracted using hexane solvents, bleached, and deodorized. High in Omega-6s which can promote inflammation if not balanced with Omega-3s.

Caramel Color

The brown color in colas. Class III and IV caramel coloring contain 4-MEI, a chemical byproduct that is a possible human carcinogen.

Autolyzed Yeast

Yeast cells that have broken themselves down. Another common label for hidden MSG used to boost savory flavor.

Sunflower Oil

Often perceived as healthy, but high-oleic versions are better. Standard sunflower oil is very high in inflammatory Omega-6s.

Invert Sugar

A syrup mixture of glucose and fructose. Retains moisture better than regular sugar but has the same negative metabolic effects.