A recent study by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) looked into how ultraprocessed foods affect human health. These foods, which now make up more than 70% of the U.S. food supply, are high in fat, sugar, and salt. Common examples include sweetened cereals, frozen pizza, and chips. The goal was to find out whether these foods cause people to eat more calories, which could lead to weight gain and other health issues. Participants, including Sam Srisatta, lived in a controlled space for 28 days. Their food, movement, and health were closely monitored. Each person received carefully planned meals based on strict guidelines from NIH dietitians. This study supports efforts to fight the growing problem of diet-related diseases in the U.S.

The results showed that people who ate ultraprocessed meals consumed about 1,000 more calories daily than those who ate less processed meals. This led to clear weight gain. Experts believe that the mix of fat, sugar, salt, and carbohydrates in these foods makes them more tempting and easier to overeat. Some scientists felt the study was too short, but others said future studies with more people and longer timeframes would help. Still, early results show that changing how ultraprocessed foods are made might help people eat fewer calories, even if those foods stay in their diets.