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British scientists: ultra-processed foods hinder weight loss even with a balanced diet

During a large-scale study, British specialists found that consumption of factory-made sweets, ready meals, and meat snacks significantly slows down the weight loss process, even if the overall diet is considered healthy. The results of the scientific work were published in the prestigious journal Nature Medicine.

The experiment involved 55 adult volunteers who followed a diet of minimally processed foods for two months, and then ate highly processed foods (UPF) for the same period. The latter usually contain numerous additives — colorings, emulsifiers, stabilizers, and flavorings designed to extend shelf life and improve taste qualities.

It's important to note that both diets were identical in terms of protein, fat, and carbohydrate ratios. Participants were provided with prepared meals, while they independently determined portion sizes and meal schedules.

The obtained data proved to be quite revealing: on the minimally processed food diet, subjects lost an average of 1.84 kg, whereas when eating ultra-processed food — only 0.88 kg. Only the first group showed a significant reduction in total fat mass and a decrease in visceral fat surrounding internal organs. Additionally, the diet without UPF notably reduced food cravings and the desire to snack.

Scientists cannot yet precisely identify the reasons for this effect. According to their assumptions, ultra-processed foods are more easily digested by the body due to their special texture and structure, which prevents the formation of a complete feeling of satiety. Food additives, the specifics of thermal processing, and effects on gut microflora may also have significant influence.