6 Smart Swaps for Popular Ultra-Processed Foods According to Expert Dr. Chris Van Tulleken

Save calories, and improve your overall health.

Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are a staple in many diets, with items like ready meals, flavored yogurts, and frozen pizzas being hard to avoid.

According to BBC presenter and infectious disease doctor Dr. Chris Van Tulleken, also the author of Ultra Processed People, making a few simple swaps can drastically reduce your intake of these foods. Not only do these changes help you avoid harmful additives, but they can also cut up to 500 calories from your daily diet.

Image via The Times

UPFs include snacks, packaged bread, and other processed favorites, typically containing few natural ingredients and harmful additives such as emulsifiers. Studies reveal that UPFs contribute to half the daily calories for adults and two-thirds for children, raising risks of heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and strokes.

In a new documentary, Dr. Van Tulleken explores why UPFs are so addictive and shares six easy swaps to help you make healthier choices.

1. Swap Jarred Pasta Sauce for a Tin of Tomatoes

PHOTO:REUTERS

2. Make Homemade Stir-Fry Sauce Instead of Using Packets

3. Tea or Coffee Instead of Energy Drinks

4. Frozen Fruit with Yoghurt Instead of Ice Cream

5. Snack on Nuts Instead of Crisps

6. Oven-Cooked Potato Wedges Instead of Frozen Chips

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