In the quest for optimal health and well-being, our discussions frequently revolve around three pivotal elements: the freshness of our food, physical fitness, and fullness or satisfaction of our meals. A critical factor in this equation is our choices about what we eat, especially regarding the consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) and their significant impact…
In a recent exploration of the modern diet, ultra-processed foods have garnered significant attention, sparking debates about what constitutes “real food.” In a recent podcast, a fascinating discussion point raised by Dr. David Lustig, an expert in Metabolic Health, delves into this issue, using Cheetos as a prime example. Many might casually affirm that Cheetos…
There can be confusion about what precisely ultra-processed food is and what fresh food is. Even though the two kinds of foods are very different, there can be confusion as to what is what kind of food. To put it in simple terms, Ultra-processed foods would be food with ingredients you would not find in…
Recently, there’s been considerable buzz about ultra-processed foods and their potential impact on our health and dietary choices. At Reluctant Low-Carb Life, we champion the cause of eating fresh, minimally processed foods. In our view, ultra-processed foods can contain ingredients you wouldn’t typically find in your kitchen or those with a list of unrecognizable components…
I spend much of my time living and working in Hanoi, Vietnam. In Vietnam, ultra-processed foods are usually more expensive than the fresh foods we can get at the market. When I return to the United States, I find the opposite is true. Ultra-processed foods are everywhere, usually cheaper than the fresh food variety. But…
In recent research, the spotlight has been on the concerning impact of ultra-processed foods. One approach to understanding these foods better is through the NOVA system, initially developed in Brazil, which categorizes these products into four distinct groups. At Reluctant Low Carb Life, we emphasize a balanced approach, focusing on consuming fresh foods, promoting fitness,…