10 Lessons from “Ultra-Processed People”: The Science Behind Our Modern Food Crisis
Apr 30, 2025
Dive into the impact of ultra-processed foods on health and how they drive overconsumption. Discover the dangers of misleading food labeling and the importance of whole foods for better satiety. Explore the psychological factors behind overeating and the challenge of sweeteners in shaping food preferences, especially in children. Unpack the intersection of food marketing, policy-making, and the need for comprehensive regulations. Lastly, engage with the complexities of navigating addiction in dietary choices.
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insights INSIGHT
Economics Drive Ultra Processed Foods
Ultra processed foods are designed to replace traditional recipes with cheaper ingredients and additives.
These changes enhance shelf life, ease distribution, and inadvertently drive overeating.
insights INSIGHT
Ultra Processed Foods High Calorie Share
UK data shows 20% of people get 80% of calories from ultra processed foods.
Ultra processed foods' high caloric density crowds out nutritious whole foods leading to overeating.
insights INSIGHT
Nutrition Labels Miss Appetite Signals
Nutrition labels encourage a reductionist view that misses the bigger picture of eating behavior.
People don't eat nutrients by number; they eat foods driven by complex appetite cues.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Ultra Processed People, Why We Can't Stop Eating Food That Isn't Food
Ultra Processed People, Why We Can't Stop Eating Food That Isn't Food
The Science Behind Our Modern Food Crisis
Chris Tullican
The hungry brain
Stephan J. Guyenet
Burn
The Misunderstood Science of Metabolism
Herman Pontzer
In this book, Herman Pontzer challenges conventional wisdom about metabolism, exercise, and weight loss. His groundbreaking research shows that exercise does not increase our metabolism; instead, humans burn calories within a narrow range of nearly 3,000 calories per day, regardless of activity level. This evolutionary strategy, while beneficial for survival in times of famine, contributes to modern obesity. Pontzer emphasizes that weight loss requires cutting calories and that all diets succeed or fail based on calorie intake. He also stresses the importance of exercise for maintaining optimal body function, even if it does not lead to weight loss. The book is filled with facts, memorable anecdotes, and insights into how metabolism controls various aspects of health, from fertility to immune function.
We're discussing the insights from the book "Ultra-Processed People" and exploring the impact of ultra-processed foods on our diets and health.
Gain a deeper understanding of how these foods are designed to drive excess consumption and affect satiety.
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ABOUT THE SHOW
The Consistency Project aims to simplify nutrition, health, and well-being by breaking down the concepts and actions we can all take to live fuller, more functional lives.
ABOUT US
📍 EC Synkowski is a Certified Nutrition Specialist® (CNS), a Licensed-Dietitian Nutritionist (LDN), and Certified CrossFit Level 4 Coach (CF-L4). She's the founder of OptimizeMe Nutrition and the creator of the #800gChallenge®. Find her on social media.
📍 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, writer, and podcaster. Find him on social media.
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