Easter is just around the corner. It’s a time when we all enjoy the treats that come with the season, like Easter eggs and chocolates. But while indulging in these goodies is part of the tradition, it’s essential to be mindful of our food choices for the sake of our health.

In this episode, we will walk you through our Additive-Free Lifestyle app and how you can use it to determine harmful additives that you need to look out for. Plus, we’ll share tips on healthier alternatives to make your Easter celebrations both delicious and nutritious!

Additives to look out for

Annatto (160b)

Annatto is a natural additive used for food coloring. However, not everything natural is good for us. It’s been heavily linked to certain health concerns like behavioral issues, skin irritations, headaches, insomnia, and most concerning head banging, especially in children. Be cautious when selecting Easter eggs with a pink or yellow hue, such as raspberry-coated almonds, white chocolate, or caramel chocolate.

Caramel (150)

When you download our Additive-Free Lifestyle app, you’ll notice that when scanning ingredients that additive 150 comes in different types: 1,2,3,4. 3 and 4 are the worst, which is commonly found in chocolates.

Processed Oils

Watch out for the types of oils used in chocolate, particularly vegetable oil and palm oil, as they can be highly inflammatory to the body. Sometimes, vegetable oil is actually palm oil but labeled differently. While completely avoiding vegetable oil can be challenging, it’s worth ditching it whenever possible, especially considering its presence in many processed and packaged foods.

Artificial food colours

Artificial colours, especially in lollies like sugar-coated M&M-type treats or Easter eggs with colorful coatings, can have significant health implications. They are associated with behavioral issues, learning difficulties, insomnia, and can exacerbate asthma symptoms.

Artificial Flavours

Flavours and natural flavours are collective terms that can be tricky because you will never know what’s in them.  Under current food standards, food manufacturers aren’t obligated to tell consumers what ingredients make up their ‘flavours’ or ‘ natural flavours’. And don’t be fooled into thinking ‘natural’ flavours are made from natural ingredients because sometimes that’s not the case at all.

We have delved deeper into this topic after we spoke to a representative from Food Standards Australia/New Zealand (FSANZ) and wrote a blog post about it which you can check out HERE.

Flavour enhancers like MSG are also common in processed foods. So, it’s best to look for products with clear ingredient lists to know what you’re eating.

Tips for a healthier Easter

While it can be challenging to avoid the influx of sugar during Easter, there are strategies to minimise the impact.

Make homemade treats

You can make your own homemade chocolate using organic ingredients. Organic brands like Organic Times and Gingerbread Folk offer healthier alternatives worth exploring. Both of which we have discount codes for which you can access HERE. Rationing out the chocolate or incorporating it into recipes can help extend its enjoyment.

Explore alternative gifts

Consider diversifying the gifts your children receive by incorporating non-chocolate items like storybooks, pyjamas, or Easter-themed colouring books or activities.

Conclusion

Navigating an additive-free Easter doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task. With the Additive-Free Lifestyle app at your fingertips, you have the tools to make informed choices for your family. By scanning ingredients, understanding common additives, and exploring healthier alternatives, you can enjoy Easter while prioritising your family’s well-being.

Remember, moderation is key, and post-Easter detoxification practices help support optimal health. Embrace this Easter season with a commitment to making additive-free choices.

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Much love,
Jo & Tracey x