1 . Artificial food dye : Makes your food pretty and can inhibit nerve-cell development Found in : Practically everything we eat : cake mixes , sports drinks , cheese , candy , and even MACARONI AND CHEESE .
Why it ’ s dangerous : Artificial dyes are made from chemicals derived from petroleum , which is also used to make gasoline , diesel fuel , asphalt , and tar ! Artificial dyes have been linked to brain cancer , nerve-cell deterioration , and hyperactivity in children , just to name a few .
Where it ’ s banned : Norway , Finland , Austria , France , and the U . K .
2 . Olestra ( or Olean ): Lowers calorie counts while causing vitamin depletion and anal leakage .
Found in : Fat-free potato chips , corn chips , and French fries .
Why it ’ s dangerous : Created by Procter & Gamble as a substitute for cooking oil , Olestra robs your body of its ability to absorb vitamins . Fun side effects include cramps and leaky bowels .