Lessons From the Boomer Diet: Cook From Scratch and Skip the UPFs

Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are ubiquitous in the modern diet, making up around 60 percent of the average person's food intake in the US. While excessive consumption of UPFs has been linked to health issues, experts suggest that not all UPFs are bad and some can provide nutritional value. The broad category of UPFs includes items like frozen French fries, peanut butter, and baked beans, each offering a mix of nutrients and potential health risks.

Finding a healthy balance between minimally processed whole foods and UPFs is key to a well-rounded diet. Some dietitians recommend incorporating fortified plant milks, yogurts, cereals, and certain protein bars or powders as nutritious options within a balanced diet. While avoiding calorie-heavy, nutrient-light snack foods is important, enjoying UPFs like potato chips or candy bars in moderation is acceptable for pleasure and indulgence.