Nutrition and diet experts say red meat and full-fat dairy can be part of a heathy diet, but they also can be high in sodium and saturated fats.

Eat real food' is the takeaway from a revised food pyramid unveiled by the Trump administration Jan. 7 but aspects of it are stirring controversy

As the Trump administration looks to create a federal definition of ultra-processed foods, the question of the best way to differentiate products within a category that can lump packaged whole-wheat bread together with soda and cheese puffs has been the subject of much debate.

Of course, how much American cheese you’re eating is also important to consider. Shank explains that eating excessive amounts of American cheese can lead to consuming high amounts of saturated fat, and this can cause inflammation. “Cheese is one of the highest contributors of saturated fat in the American diet,” she says.

“Eat less processed food!” has been the public health messaging for years, due to a link between ultra-processed foods and conditions such as obesity, heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. However, the message, while simple, assumes that everyone understands what processed foods are and their association with health.

When I hear the term “ultra-processed” food, my mind goes directly to what I see in most convenience stores. Sodas, energy drinks, candy bars, pastries and cheese puffs come to mind. These items contain more than their fair share of sugar and/or salt ...