Artificial coloring is mostly derived from petroleum and do not provide any nutritional value. They are mainly included for appealing to your eyes, so that you are more likely to purchase a product.

Common artificial dyes that you may find on ingredient labels include: FD&C Red #3, Red #40, Yellow #5, Yellow #6, Blue #1, Blue #2 and Green #3. Here are a few adverse effects that can come from artificial dyes:

Red dye – trouble sleeping, headaches and migraines, hyperactivity, reduced concentration.

From a young age I was allergic to red dye and the allergic symptoms I experienced were itchy eyes, itchy skin, and a lot of scratching. Later on in life it began to make me nauseous for a few days.

Yellow dye – hyperactivity, headaches and migraines, allergies, asthma, skin rashes, runny nose, mood swings, gastric upset, hives.

Blue dye – refractory hypotension and metabolic acidosis.

Here are a few foods that are naturally dye-free:

  • Nuts and seeds that are unflavored
  • All fresh fruits and vegetables
  • Whole grains from scratch like oats, rice, quinoa
  • Legumes like black beans, chickpeas, lentils
  • Fresh, unmarinated chicken, pork, beef, fish
  • Eggs

The more you buy from scratch, the less exposed you will be to synthetic ingredients like artificial dyes.

As previously mentioned, I experienced skin reactions to red dye, and I used to have eczema and atopic dermatitis. So if you have any skin issues, consider removing artificial dyes from your diet, as well as skin and hair care products.

Alternatives

  • Pink: raspberries, strawberries
  • Red: beets, tomato
  • Orange: carrots, paprika, sweet potato
  • Yellow: saffron, turmeric
  • Green: matcha, spinach
  • Blue: blueberries, red cabbage + baking soda
  • Purple: blueberries, purple sweet potato
  • Brown: coffee, tea, cocoa
  • Black: activated charcoal, squid ink

The colors may not be as intense as artificial coloring, but avoid being disappointed about that and embrace the fact that you are improving your health and the health of the generations that may come after you.

If you are seeking help with allergies, digestive issues, eczema or atopic dermatitis, schedule an appointment by:

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