How Worried Should You Be About Ultraprocessed Foods?
May 7, 2024
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Marion Nestle, a nutrition expert, discusses the rise of ultraprocessed foods and their health risks. Kevin Hall's trial shows significant differences in weight gain and inflammation between diets with and without ultraprocessed foods.
Ultraprocessed foods, comprising additives and enhancers, link to heart disease and cancer, urging reevaluation of dietary habits.
The NOVA classification system categorizes foods by processing levels, emphasizing the prevalence of ultra processed foods in American diets.
Deep dives
Introduction to Ultra Processed Foods
The episode delves into the concept of ultra processed foods and their impact on health. With kids consuming two-thirds of their calories from these foods, concerns arise about health implications. Ingredients like additives and flavor enhancers in ultra processed foods are linked to serious health conditions like heart disease and cancer, raising questions about dietary choices.
Evolution of Food Processing
The podcast explores the historical shift towards ultra processed foods, attributing it to changes post-World War II and in the 70s and 80s. During World War II, industrial processes developed for food production led to packaged foods becoming prominent. Subsequent deregulation in the 80s increased processed food availability, aligning with profit-driven motives which shaped the food industry.
Defining Ultra Processed Foods
Researchers introduced the NOVA classification system grouping foods based on processing levels. Foods range from natural to ultra processed, indicative of industrial alterations before consumption. This categorization aids in distinguishing between minimally processed and highly altered foods. Ultra processed foods, laden with additives and refined ingredients, account for a significant portion of the American diet.
Impact of Ultra Processed Foods on Body
A controlled clinical trial highlighted the consequences of an ultra processed diet on weight gain and health markers. Individuals consuming ultra processed foods exhibited significant calorie overconsumption, leading to immediate weight increase. Despite matching nutrients with minimally processed diets, the ultra processed variant resulted in higher calorie intake and adverse health effects, unveiling the detrimental impact of such foods on metabolism.
We've all heard of processed foods, but what about ultraprocessed foods, which make up more than half of the typical American diet? In this special Chasing Life: Spotlight, CNN Medical Correspondent Meg Tirrell explores how these foods became so widespread and the potential risks they pose to our health. She speaks with Professor Marion Nestle, a leading authority on nutrition and food policy and NIH senior investigator Kevin Hall, who conducted the first and only controlled clinical trial on ultraprocessed foods. Hear about the study's remarkable findings; it may change some of the choices you make in the grocery store.