Dr. Hall’s work has revolutionized our understanding of nutrition, showing that it’s not just the amount of salt, sugar, fat, and calories in food that matters for our health, but also how much processing takes place.
A decade ago, most people had never heard of ultra-processed foods. But since then, research has shown that consuming these foods can lead to weight gain and chronic diseases like obesity and Type 2 diabetes. Dr. Hall’s landmark study found that participants who ate ultra-processed foods consumed an extra 500 calories per day.
So, what makes ultra-processed foods so appealing? Dr. Hall attributes it to their high energy density and hyper-palatability. These characteristics make the food more convenient and tasty, but also lead to overconsumption of calories. To combat this, Dr. Hall recommends focusing on whole, minimally processed foods.
But how can we make healthy choices when ultra-processed foods are so prevalent? The answer lies in moderation. While it’s true that some ultra-processed foods can be part of a healthy diet, it’s essential to be mindful of their role and not overdo it. Dr. Hall suggests seeking out healthier alternatives within the processed food category.
Ultimately, Dr. Hall emphasizes the importance of adopting a balanced approach to nutrition, focusing on whole, minimally processed foods while still allowing for moderation in ultra-processed options.
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/wellness/2025/10/01/kevin-hall-ultra-processed-foods