Author: Catherine

A new analysis suggests that simply switching to whole, unprocessed foods may help people eat fewer calories—without counting or restricting portions. Researchers at the University of Bristol reexamined data from a tightly controlled National Institutes of Health (NIH) trial comparing ultra-processed diets with whole-food diets. Participants who ate only unprocessed meals consumed about 330 fewer calories per day, despite eating 57% more food by weight. The study, featured on MindBodyGreen, found that people naturally gravitated toward fruits and vegetables, driven by what researchers call “nutritional intelligence”—the body’s instinct to meet micronutrient needs before calorie intake. According to the authors, processed foods disrupt this balance by packing vitamins and calories togethe...

A new analysis from the University of Bristol reveals that eating unprocessed foods could naturally help people cut about 330 calories a day — without eating less. By revisiting data from a landmark study by the U.S. National Institutes of Health, scientists found that participants on an all-unprocessed diet ate more by weight yet consumed fewer calories overall. Researchers believe this stems from a “nutritional intelligence” that draws people toward fruits and vegetables when foods are in their natural state. The findings highlight how ultra-processed foods may disrupt this instinct, prompting higher calorie intake despite smaller portions. Read the full study summary at SciTechDaily.

For the seventh consecutive year, the Mediterranean diet has secured the number one spot in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Diets ranking, a testament to its enduring appeal and proven health benefits. As GQ reports, the diet’s foundation lies in the traditional eating habits of Mediterranean countries — emphasizing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats like olive oil. More than a passing food trend, experts praise the diet for supporting heart, bone, and joint health while reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes. The key to its success? Simplicity, sustainability, and a flavorful approach that’s easy to maintain for life.