I gave up artificial sweeteners sometime ago. I can not drink any “zero” soda. Foods and drinks in the US are loaded with
“additives “ that are chemically produced. Even “organic” juices have ascorbic acid (chemically produced). The Journal of Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics reported in a new study
that 60% of foods purchased by Americans contain technical food additives. Even NIH (National Institute of Health) has studies on how culture is now in control of evolution, “and it is not clear how much culture the
human can tolerate.

Years ago I did some work with an international telecom company. Great international staff that would get together for lunch in the conference room to share ethnic specialties with each other. Most use more raw foods they prepaid daily that are excellent. Their office was just outside DC by the metro. I spent the morning in DC, got back around 1 and went by McDonalds. Got 3 quarter pounders then went to the conference room and offered to share this traditional food from my country. We had a good laugh.

Moderation and variety is a good plan. No one on a healthy diet should feel bad about occasional strays or lack of perfection. Overall I feel the US could do better nutritionally and make it satisfying.

I saw this article yesterday and it gave me pause. However, like Sam said it seems that everything we eat we need to worry about now and all of us have given up so many "bad" habits. My approach now is everything in moderation. Not saying this is the right approach but it is how I choose to deal with it.

I gave up everything but gum. I have been chewing gum for years but I dont think that I am gonna stop. God knows when he is taking us home. I have tooken care of mysefl for a long time and I will do this untl the day that he takes me home.

I chew gum all day and it has Xylitol in it. I am on blood thinners so hopefully it will not be an issue. Gosh I have given up a lot of bad habits, drinking alcohol, smoking, red meat, white meat, 1 cup of coffee a day, limit baked goods, added salt etc. Well, it seems everything gets us now a days. Microplastics, Cancer from serving in the armed forces at various installations (water, burn pits) etc. Oh well, guess I will wait my turn what the big guy tells me it's my turn.