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Study shows home cooking leads to better weight loss

A UCL study finds that minimally processed foods are more effective for weight loss than ultra-processed meals.

August 4, 2025 at 03:01 PM
blur Home cooking and minimally processed foods best for weight loss, study finds

Research shows that cooking from scratch aids weight loss more than eating ready-made meals.

Study confirms benefits of home cooking over ultra-processed foods

A new study reveals that individuals who prefer cooking with minimally processed foods lose more weight compared to those consuming ultra-processed meals. Conducted by University College London, the trial involved two groups adhering to diets for eight weeks. One group consumed ultra-processed foods like ready-made lasagne, while the other had home-cooked meals such as oats and spaghetti bolognese. The results indicated that those who cooked from scratch lost twice as much weight as their counterparts, suggesting a significant link between food processing and weight management.

Key Takeaways

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Cooking from scratch leads to greater weight loss than eating ready-made meals.
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Minimally processed foods are linked to healthier dietary habits.
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The study indicates a need for policy focus on unhealthy food environments.
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Participants lost twice the weight on a minimally processed diet.
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Healthier food options are often more expensive.
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Awareness and affordability of healthy diets must improve.

"The global food system drives diet-related poor health and obesity."

Prof Chris van Tulleken highlights systemic issues in food production.

"Healthy food is up to two times more expensive than unhealthy food."

Dr Adrian Brown points to economic barriers impacting food choices.

"We now know that whole foods and ultra-processed products deliver different health outcomes."

Rob Percival critiques past dietary guidelines and their implications.

This study emphasizes that nutrition is not solely about calories. The way food is processed plays a crucial role in health outcomes. The findings suggest that a shift in diet towards minimally processed foods could reduce the obesity epidemic. Experts advocate for policy changes that focus on food environments shaped by large corporations rather than solely on individual dietary choices. With rising food prices, promoting healthier, home-cooked options may require targeted governmental support.

Highlights

  • Home cooking is a powerful tool in the fight against obesity.
  • Ultra-processed meals can hinder weight loss efforts.
  • Shifting focus from personal choices to food environments is essential.
  • Healthy eating must be affordable for everyone.

Potential backlash against food policy changes

Shifting dietary recommendations may face resistance from industry stakeholders and consumers accustomed to processed foods.

These findings challenge traditional dietary guidelines and call for a reevaluation of food policies.

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