Whole Foods vs Processed Foods

I've talked about the merits on eating whole foods before. I noticed that a lot of people are still confused on what to eat and how to identify if something is wholesome and healthy for you. So I've made a list to identify what consists of healthy whole foods, and processed foods that are usually have less, if not devoid of nutrients.

Whole Foods
1. It should look like something that out naturally come from the ground or raw from an animal source. If it comes in a package or box, the only ingredient listed should only consist of the raw ingredient and no other additives. For example: oats, beans, raw nuts, eggs etc.
2. It takes work to prepare it before you eat. You usually need to clean, chop or cook it before eating it.
3. It usually has a short shelf life and best eaten as soon as possible. Isn't this true for fresh fruits and vegetables?
4. If you leave it out for a few days, it turns moldy, rotten and ridden with bacteria.
5. Usually, you won't find them in the MIDDLE of the department store, but at the SIDE, where fresh produce are kept. An exception of course are packaged whole foods like oats.

Processed foods
1. Usually comes in a package, bag or box, and is wrapped in plastic or foil. Looks nothing like something that came out from the ground or an animal source.
2. Very convenient and easy to eat. Just take it out of the package and you're ready to go.
3. Has a long shelf life and tastes the same even after a long time.
4. Ingredients list is usually longer than your monthly bills. Plus you can't even pronounce most of the chemical ingredients or additives, let alone know what they are.

There you have it, some simple tips to help you choose a better, healthier and more wholesome diet =)