In January, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned the use of the synthetic dye Red 3 in food and drug products. While the FDA’s ban is a very important milestone, it is only a small step in improving the health of Americans.

Red 3 is made from petroleum. Some of the most popular food items containing this dye are candies, ice cream, cake mixes and certain brands of maraschino cherries. Red 3 is what gives those foods their bright and bold red color.

For decades, scientists have studied the effect of Red 3 on rats. In the 1980s, Red 3 was linked to cancer in rats due to a disruption in their thyroid hormone regulation. The FDA claims, however, that the way Red 3 causes cancer in male rats does not occur in humans.

Nonetheless, these results are quite alarming.

In humans, Red 3 is linked to potentially worsening behavioral issues in children, such as hyperactivity. In fact, a link to hyperactivity in children is also present in several other synthetic food dyes, especially Red 40.

As someone who prioritizes healthy eating, I am going to be fully transparent: I have not completely eliminated food dyes from my diet. For instance, if I’m at an event, I won’t necessarily go out of my way to avoid artificial food dyes.

However, my one rule is that I avoid purchasing anything containing artificial food dyes. This may sound difficult, but the good news is today there are quite a few healthier options out there. My favorite option, though, is to actually make healthier versions of dye-ridden foods.

At home, I make homemade fruit snacks with 100% fruit juice, honey, lemon and grass-fed, unflavored gelatin. Not only are these fruit snacks tasty, but they are also loaded with a ton of nutrients such as collagen, antioxidants and even protein.

When I first heard about the ban, it brought me a small sense of hope. I am glad the government is taking steps toward bettering our health, but with so many unhealthy additives out there, a single ban is inconsequential. We need to see more.

Some more bans I would like to see in the U.S. include all synthetic food dyes, artificial flavors, high fructose corn syrup and aspartame, an artificial sweetener.

It’s concerning that, as a nation, we have battled many diseases that most likely stem from poor diets. Many of us have also failed to acknowledge the dangerous side effects of the food we eat every day. While there is an extensive amount of research available, it’s ultimately up to you and me to take the initiative to truly invest in our health. Because if we don’t, no one else will.

Ultimately, I believe it’s all about balance. Life is one big balancing act. Do your research and decide what works best for you.