How to Stop Eating Processed Foods

Fresh fruit and Vegetables

There have been many food scares over the years with the levels of horse meat being found in processed foods being the most recent in the UK. Nothing wrong with horse meat but when you think you are eating beef, that's another story!
Many consumers are now wary of the supermarkets and food brands that they once trusted to provide quick and easy meals that would keep their families going in the busy periods of the week.
So what can one do now?

Eat less canned foods
These contain a large amount of salt, sugar and artificial preservatives. You can begin to use more pulses like lentils and kidney beans by soaking them overnight and using a pressure cooker to speed up cooking time. Another fab option is fresh fruit which is the best fast food there is or vegetables which require a quick steam or stir fry.

Increase the amount of fresh meat and fish
Visit the butchers and the fishmonger's section and ask questions until you feel comfortable that you are getting best value. They are also very friendly people and will help with cooking tips until you can give some yourself. Compare them with butchers on your local high street but don't write them off as too expensive.
I have found that you actually eat less of fresh food that you do artificial and so the cost pays off in the end.

Consider the amount of white products you consume
White bread, pasta and rice have no value at all but we consume large amounts. Find ways to replace them bit by bit with whole grain alternatives, starting with bread and then introducing quinoa, brown rice and wild rice. Just do it bit by bit.

Change shopping venues
Source fruit and veg in your local markets. They may not look the same or last as long but don't let that put you off as you will find that they disappear fast! 
You don't have to get everything in the big superstores, walk down the local high street and explore new places that sell fresh unprocessed foods. 
The local Turkish stores have an amazing supply of nuts, yogurts and fresh fruit and herbs.
The Indian stores have all the yam and plantain you need. Explore further.  

And now for the junk food
What snacks do you eat at home?
Fizzy drinks, sweets, crisps are all high in empty calories and just feeding an addiction for more of the bad stuff. 
Replace fizzy drinks with sparkling water mixes; use diluted fruit juices and of course introduce water at every turn. Have a lovely jug always filled with water handy. One in the fridge and one out of the fridge to meet everyone's needs. 
Replace crisps and sweets with trays of cut fruit, granola and flap jacks. You can find awesome recipes online and make up batches to last the week. 
Nuts and seeds are a great snack as well.
Don't forget the unsalted popcorn but include some sweet options as well with maple syrup and chocolate.

Be prepared to prep!
In order to eat less processed foods you have to be prepared in advance. Plan your meals and set aside time to cook. I find that I cook up extra on the weekends and freeze portions for during the week. That helps loads. Or you can buy chopped meats that will cook quickly and include vegetables to be a wholesome filler on the plate. 
You also have to be prepared to shop wider from a number of stores which may seem inconvenient but once you know which stores you like and what you want from each you will be amazed how quickly you settle into a new routine.
Planning is key so that you have all the ingredients that you need at hand.

So swapping processed foods for unprocessed foods takes a new set of skills which will only bring huge benefits to your health and your family. Well worth it!

Have you made the switch to unprocessed foods?
I would love to hear you tips.