Minimally Processed Diets Beat Ultraprocessed Diets on Weight and Cardiometabolic Health Markers

A randomized controlled crossover trial in England examined the impact of ultraprocessed food (UPF) consumption on weight loss within the framework of national dietary guidelines. Fifty-five adults (BMI 25–40, with habitual UPF intake ≥50% of daily calories) were assigned two 8-week ad libitum diets based on the UK Eatwell Guide: one centered on minimally processed foods (MPF) and the other on UPFs, in random order. Fifty participants completed the study. Both diets led to weight loss, but MPF resulted in significantly greater weight reduction (% weight change: −2.06% for MPF vs −1.05% for UPF). Greater BMI and fat mass loss were also observed on the MPF compared with the UPF diet, as well as greater reductions in triglycerides and cravings. Mild gastrointestinal side effects were common with both diets. These findings suggest that, beyond nutrient composition, the level of food processing should be considered in dietary recommendations to support better health outcomes. Source: https://www.nature.com/