Scientists discover another downside to ultra-processed foods

Health & Fitness
2 Sep 2025 • 9:28 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

image is not available

  • New research indicates that consuming an ultra-processed diet leads to greater weight gain compared to a minimally processed diet, even when caloric intake is identical.
  • A study involving 43 men aged 20-35 found participants gained approximately one kilogram more fat mass while on an ultra-processed diet.
  • The findings suggest that the processed nature of foods, rather than just caloric content, significantly impacts reproductive and metabolic health.
  • The study also revealed that diets high in ultra-processed foods introduce higher levels of pollutants, such as phthalate cxMINP, which are known to negatively affect sperm quality and hormone levels.
  • Researchers concluded that calories from unprocessed and ultra-processed foods are not metabolised or stored equally, highlighting the need to revise nutritional guidelines.

IN FULL

Newswav Malaysia Best News App

Newswav is an online content aggregator and obtains its content from different online sources. The content in the app do not belong to Newswav nor do they reflect the opinions of Newswav and its staff. Your use of this app indicates your understanding and acceptance of this information.

Newswav Sdn. Bhd. (201701008480 (1222645-M)) 2026 All Rights Reserved