Mixed
Isocaloric substitution of ultra-processed foods (NOVA 4) with minimally processed foods and culinary ingredients (NOVA 1+2) is associated with greater weight loss, body fat reduction, and trunk fat reduction in individuals following an energy-restricted diet.
If you are trying to lose weight, focus on swapping ultra-processed foods (like packaged snacks, sugary drinks, and processed meats) for minimally processed foods (like whole fruits, vegetables, and whole grains) while keeping your total calories the same. This swap can help you lose more weight and body fat than just counting calories alone.
Isocaloric substitution of UPFs with NOVA1+2 was associated with marginally greater weight loss under energy-restriction.
Why this rating
Secondary analysis of a large, randomized controlled trial (POUNDS Lost) with rigorous statistical adjustment, though observational in nature regarding the specific substitution.
Source
Isocaloric replacement of ultraprocessed foods was associated with greater weight loss in the <scp>POUNDS</scp> Lost trial
Qisi Yao et al. · Obesity · 2024
This is one finding among thousands. Every one is graded and traced to its source, so you can see what the evidence actually supports. Browse the research →