Ultra-Processed Foods and Performance
Ultra-processed foods now make up a large portion of many diets, including among active individuals. While convenient, these foods are often lower in micronutrients and may impact satiety and energy regulation. For clients focused on performance, this raises questions about how food quality influences not just body composition but also recovery and consistency.
Eliminating these foods entirely is rarely practical or necessary. However, a heavy reliance on them may displace more nutrient-dense options. Coaches may need to guide clients toward a balance that supports both adherence and nutritional quality.
References
Monteiro, Carlos A., et al. “Ultra-Processed Foods: What They Are and How to Identify Them.” Public Health Nutrition, vol. 22, no. 5, 2019.
