What happens when the body processes ultra-processed foods?

Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) not only affect metabolism, but also brain activity, according to a new study published in Nature Metabolism. The researchers found that even when foods with different processing have almost the same amount of calories, carbohydrates, fat, protein, water and salt, the body reacts differently to them.

The study involved 57 healthy adults. They consumed, on different days, 300-calorie meals that were nearly nutritionally identical. One meal contained ultra-processed foods, such as a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, processed turkey, vegetable chips, crackers, and instant mashed potatoes. The other meal contained minimally processed foods, such as bananas, dried fruit, cheese, and eggs.

The results surprised the researchers. After consuming ultra-processed foods, the body produced more insulin, blood sugar stayed elevated for a little longer, and the body expended more energy while using fewer carbohydrates as an energy source.

The researchers also used brain scans to look at the response to foods. Metabolic changes were linked to activity in areas of the brain associated with motivation, reward, and how the brain evaluates foods.

UPFs include products such as sausages, breakfast cereals, crisps, ice cream, biscuits, soft drinks, instant soups and mass-produced bread. These foods are usually high in sugar, fat and salt, while low in fibre and protein.

The study suggests that the way food is processed can affect how the body and brain respond to food, beyond its nutritional composition. The researchers plan to analyze the impact of additives and specific processing processes in the future. / Talker News