Processed foods often contain lots of fat, salt and other preservatives that make them considerably less healthy.

To avoid processed foods, the American Heart Association suggests:

• Cook your own meals, instead of eating ready-made meals.
• Skip bottled salad dressings, and create a dressing yourself.
• Instead of flavored yogurt, buy plain yogurt and add fruit.
• Grow your own fruit and vegetables.
• Choose less processed snacks, such as cut crunchy vegetables, popcorn, nuts or seeds.

Source: HealthDay