Processed foods have long been associated with negative health effects, including harm to babies, accelerated aging, and increased risk of heart disease. However, a recent study conducted by researchers at the Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center challenges this notion. According to their findings, a healthy diet that adheres to the American dietary guidelines for 2020-2025 can consist of up to 91% processed foods. The study, published in The Journal of Nutrition, aims to provide a more balanced perspective on healthy eating patterns.
To conduct the study, the researchers used the NOVA scale, which is the standard classification system in nutrition science. This scale categorizes foods into four groups based on their level of processing. The researchers then created a weekly menu consisting of foods with lower amounts of saturated fats and added sugars but sufficient amounts of micronutrients and macronutrients. The menu scored 86 out of 100 points on the Healthy Eating Index-2015, indicating high-quality nutrition.
The study’s lead author, Julie Hess, emphasizes that the nutrient content and food group classification of a food item are more important than its level of processing. She notes that the study serves as a proof of concept that processed foods can be a viable option for a healthy diet. While the study’s findings may be surprising to some, it highlights the importance of a balanced approach to nutrition and the need to consider the overall nutrient profile of a food item rather than solely focusing on its level of processing.
