Products that hinder weight loss have been named

Even when following a healthy diet, a menu rich in factory-made sweets, ready-made products, and meat snacks can hinder weight loss. British scientists have come to this conclusion. The research results are published in the journal Nature Medicine.

55 adults participated in the experiment. For eight weeks, they ate predominantly minimally processed foods, and then for the same amount of time - ultra-processed foods (UPF). Such food typically contains added colorings, emulsifiers, stabilizers, and flavorings so that the finished product has a longer shelf life, tastes better, and looks more appealing.

In both types of diets, the ratio of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates was the same. Participants were delivered ready-made meals, but they chose the portion sizes and mealtimes themselves.

The results showed: when consuming minimally processed foods, participants lost an average of 1.84 kg, while on the "UPF diet" - 0.88 kg. Only in the first group was there a decrease in total fat mass and a reduction in visceral fat surrounding internal organs. Additionally, subjects on the diet without UPF experienced reduced food cravings and desire to snack.

The exact causes of this effect have not yet been established. Researchers suggest that UPF is easier to digest due to its texture and structure, which prevents the formation of a feeling of satiety. Furthermore, additives, peculiarities of thermal processing, and effects on gut microbiota may play an important role.