Tag: Refined food

According to the American Heart Association, most Americans should get half their daily calories from carbohydrates, but the quality of those carbs is key. Many view pasta through a singular, negative lens, asking, "Is pasta an unhealthy refined food?" The answer is more complex, depending on the type, preparation, and portion.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), unhealthy diet and lack of physical activity are leading global risks to health. When it comes to everyday food choices, a fundamental question arises: **What's healthier, refined or unrefined?** The answer lies in understanding how processing affects a food's nutritional value, fiber content, and impact on your body.

With the average American consuming significantly more added sugar than health guidelines recommend, many wonder whether starches are healthier than sugar. The answer, however, is not as simple as one might think and depends heavily on the source of the carbohydrate and how it is processed.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, a full cup of cornstarch contains nearly 488 calories and 117 grams of carbohydrates, but lacks substantial protein, fiber, or essential vitamins. This highly refined product raises a common question for health-conscious consumers: **what does corn starch contain?**

According to Food Network, most protein powders are considered ultra-processed foods, but not all are created equal. The term "refined" for protein powder depends on its source and the manufacturing process, which can range from gentle filtration to chemical-based extraction, influencing its final nutritional profile.