Ultra-Processed Diets Trigger Weight Gain, Hormone Disruption, and Toxic Exposure

Ultra-processed foods may harm health beyond simply adding calories, according to a study published in Cell Metabolism. Researchers found that men consuming ultra-processed diets gained more body fat and showed signs of hormone disruption, even when calorie intake was matched to that of minimally processed diets.

The trial involved 43 men aged 20–35 who alternated between ultra-processed and unprocessed diets for three weeks each, with a three-month washout period. Both diets were nutritionally identical in calories, protein, carbohydrates, and fats. Despite this, participants gained about 1 kg more fat mass on the ultra-processed diet.

The study also revealed elevated levels of endocrine-disrupting phthalates, commonly found in plastics, as well as reduced testosterone and follicle-stimulating hormone, both vital for reproductive health. Researchers warn these findings suggest that the industrial processing of foods—not just overeating—undermines metabolic and reproductive function, underscoring the urgent need to rethink dietary guidelines.

30-08-2025