Are Additives REALLY to Blame for the Risks of Ultra Processed Foods? (You Might be SHOCKED)
Bite Back with Abbey SharpShow Notes
In today’s episode of Bite Back with Abbey Sharp, we’re back with Part Two of our ultra-processed foods deep dive, exploring why certain ultra-processed foods may make us eat more, even when their nutritional profiles look similar. We unpack the science behind food texture, eating speed, energy density, and satiety, including clinical trials showing how simple changes to food structure can dramatically impact calorie intake. Plus, we explore the food matrix, why whole almonds and almond butter deliver different amounts of usable energy, and whether additives and preservatives are really to blame for overeating—or if something else is going on.
Here’s a run down of what we discussed in today’s episode:
Can Ultra-Processed Foods Affect Health Without Extra Calories?
Why Food Texture Matters More Than You Think
How Slower Eating Reduced Calorie Intake by 369 Calories
The Connection Between Eating Speed, Energy Density & Overeating
What Is the Food Matrix & Why Does It Matter?
Whole Almonds vs. Almond Butter: Why Calories Aren't Equal
How Food Processing Changes Calorie Absorption
The Surprising Role of Your Gut Microbiome
The Real Problem With Ultra-Processed Foods
How to Make Healthier Choices Without Avoiding Processed Foods
👩🏼💻 RESEARCH LINKS:
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-025-03842-0
https://www.cell.com/cell-metabolism/fulltext/S1550-4131(25)00360-2
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0002916525007105
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40516651/
https://pubs.rsc.org/fo/article/7/10/4231/524424/Food-processing-and-structure-impact-the
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10232526/
#ultraprocessedfoods #processedfoods #weightloss #guthealth #nutrition #dietitian #foodscience
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DISCLAIMER:The content in this episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is never a substitute for medical advice. If you’re struggling with with your mental or physical health, please work one on one with a health care provider.
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