How healthy are \u2018good-for-you\u2019 ultra-processed foods?
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Not all ultra-processed foods are bad for you. But if you\u2019re trying to lose weight, it\u2019s still probably better to opt for nutritious minimally processed foods over protein bars and high-fiber breakfast cereals, according to a new study.<\/p>\n
The study, published Monday in Nature Medicine<\/a>, builds on a growing body of research investigating ultra-processed foods<\/a>, which make up more than half the daily calories consumed by people in the U.K<\/a>. and the U.S<\/a>. The rise of the Make America Healthy Again movement has put a spotlight<\/a> on how ultra-processed foods affect health, and the related question of what dietary changes might help improve rates of chronic disease \u2014 though so far the movement\u2019s leaders have largely focused on what nutrition experts say are incremental changes<\/a> like getting rid of synthetic dyes.<\/p>\n In this study, researchers set out to compare the results of two diets that each followed the U.K.\u2019s nutritional guidelines, giving people their recommended servings of protein, fiber, and fruits and vegetables. But one diet was ultra-processed \u2014 think premade lasagna for dinner \u2014 while the other featured food prepared by an independent caterer, like spaghetti bolognese. The 50 study participants who completed the trial followed one diet for eight weeks, took a four-week break, and then switched to the other diet for another eight weeks.\u00a0<\/p>\n