Adherence
High ultra-processed food (UPF) intake is associated with significantly higher sedentary time and adverse dietary habits (lower protein/fiber, higher added sugar/refined grains) in young active adults, even when controlling for recreational physical activity.
If you are highly active, you might not gain weight from eating ultra-processed foods, but you are likely spending more time sitting and eating fewer nutrients. Prioritize whole foods to support recovery and energy levels, regardless of your exercise volume.
Compared to LOWUPF, HIGHUPF exhibited lower protein (%) intake (p=0.04), lower fiber intake (p=0.05), higher added sugar (p=0.05), higher refined grains (oz/1,000kcal) intake (p=0.001), and higher sedentary time (mins/day) (p=0.001).
Why this rating
Observational study with a small sample size (n=42) and self-reported data, though statistically significant correlations were found.
Source
Associations Between Ultra-Processed Food Consumption and BMI, Sedentary Time, and Adverse Dietary Habits in Active Young Adults
Bailey Capra et al. · Journal of Exercise and Nutrition · 2022
DOI 10.53520/jen2022.103121
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