Four hidden (dangerous) ingredients in processed foods

Did you know that the average American spends 90% of their food budget on processed foods? That's an incredible statistic, and one that many blame on the obesity epidemic we're facing today. Here's another fact: The average person will eat 63 pounds of high fructose corn syrup in the next year. Yikes.

Processed foods are convenient, inexpensive, and easy -- but eating them without considering what goes into them may be contributing to your risk of developing heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Reader's Digest outlines the "big four" -- or the most dangerous culprits hidden in processed foods to make them faster, cheaper, and often softer and sweeter:

1. trans fats
2. refined grains
3. salt
4. high fructose corn syrup

Luckily, all four of these show up in one way or another on food labels. Better yet, spend your time in the grocery store circling the perimeter where fresh produce, lean meats and fish, and dairy are kept. When you do go into the center aisles, try to find products than contain the fewest ingredients and that leave these "big four" out. Your heart, and your health, will thank you.