Study shows that diet with little processed foods duplicate weight loss in the face of ultra -processed.
A clinical trial conducted by researchers from University College London (UCL) and University College London Hospital (UCLH) concluded that Opt for poorly processed foods can lead to a weight loss twice as much as registered with ultra -processed foodseven when diets have the same nutritional profile.
Investigation, in Nature Medicine, is the longest to date to directly compare the two types of food in real conditions. The study involved 55 adults divided into two groups that alternated between a eight -week diet Based on poorly processed foods-such as soaked oats or homemade bolognese spaghetti-and one consisting of ultra-processed ones, such as breakfast bars or ready-made meals.
Both diets followed the official recommendations of the Eatwell British guide, ensuring balanced levels of fat, protein, carbohydrates, salt and fiber.
Although participants can eat freely, without quantity restrictions, weight loss was almost twice as much in the little processed food regime: a average reduction of 2.06% of body weight, against 1.05% with ultra -processed. Researchers estimate that by the end of a year, this difference would translate into a 13% reduction in men’s weight and 9% of women, compared to 4% and 5%, respectively, with ultra -processed ones.
The greatest weight loss was associated with decreases in fat mass and body water, keeping muscle mass. In addition, participants reported better appetite control and fewer eating desires when they followed the diet with poorly processed foods.
Although secondary health markers, such as blood pressure, blood glucose and cholesterol, have not revealed significant differences between diets, the authors warn that longer studies will be needed to evaluate these parameters.
The team concludes that while it is essential to follow official nutritional recommendations, opt for fresh and poorly processed, home -prepared foods, you can offer additional benefits to weight, body composition and general health.
