Mixed

Ad libitum consumption of an ultra-processed food (UPF) diet, even when compliant with standard macronutrient dietary guidelines, leads to weight gain and adverse metabolic outcomes, whereas a minimally processed food (MPF) diet leads to weight loss and favorable metabolic changes.

This study protocol investigates whether simply following standard dietary guidelines (like the UK Eatwell Guide) is enough to maintain health if the food is ultra-processed. The hypothesis is that even if you eat the 'right' amounts of fat, sugar, and protein, ultra-processed foods may lead to weight gain, while minimally processed foods lead to weight loss, regardless of macronutrient matching. Until results are published, the implication is that food quality (processing level) matters independently of quantity.