So, What’s the Deal with Ultra Processed Foods Anyway? (How to Make Balanced Nutrition Choices)

Jun 11
3 min read

When we talk about wellness and nutrition, few phrases stir up as much confusion as “ultra processed foods.” Are they always bad? Are they ever helpful? And what does “ultra processed” even mean?

At Belle Confiture, we approach topics like these with curiosity, not fear — and always with the understanding that balance, not perfection, is what helps us thrive. So let’s dig in.

What Are Ultra Processed Foods?

First, let’s get clear on definitions:

Processed foods are any foods that have been altered from their natural state for safety or convenience. Think: chopped, canned, frozen, dried, or pasteurized.
Ultra processed foods, on the other hand, go a step further. These are industrially formulated products that include ingredients not commonly found in a home kitchen — artificial flavors, preservatives, emulsifiers, colorings, or additives.

Think boxed cake snacks, fast food, microwaveable TV dinners, and sodas. These foods tend to be shelf-stable, convenient, and designed to taste really good.

Not All Ultra Processed Foods Are "Bad"

Here’s where nuance matters — just because something is ultra processed doesn’t automatically make it harmful.

For example:

Whey protein is an ultra processed byproduct of milk, but it’s incredibly beneficial for people who struggle to meet their daily protein intake.
Dextrose powder is a refined carbohydrate often used to replenish glycogen stores during long workouts — perfect for athletes and endurance trainers.

The keyword here is balanced nutrition. In some cases, a processed option might be more supportive than skipping the nutrient altogether.

What Makes Ultra Processed Foods Tricky?

The concern with ultra processed foods isn’t always about one ingredient — it’s about patterns and quality.

Research has shown that when two people (with identical diets, genetics, and exercise routines) consume the same macronutrient split — the one who eats whole, minimally processed foods tends to have a better body composition than the one getting the same calories and macros from TV dinners, pre-packaged cakes, or drive-thru dinners.

Why? We don’t fully understand every mechanism yet — but likely factors include:

How food affects our gut bacteria
The way our bodies absorb nutrients
The hormonal effects of certain additives
Satiation signals — whole foods are often more filling

So while macros matter, where they come from also plays a big role in how your body responds over time.

Whole Foods First, But Make Room for Joy

At Belle Confiture, we’re not about labeling food as “bad” or creating fear around eating.

Wellness isn’t black and white — it’s built through long-term, sustainable habits.

That’s why our approach to balanced nutrition includes room for both:

Whole foods that fuel your energy and support your hormones, muscles, and metabolism
Other foods that bring joy, nostalgia, or social connection — in moderation, not restriction

Because you were made to enjoy food, not obsess over it.

So, What Does This Mean for You?

Use this simple filter when approaching food: 💭 Is this supporting my goals right now — physically, mentally, or emotionally?

You don’t need to fear processed foods. Just build your meals around whole sources like protein, fruits, veggies, quality fats, and complex carbs — and let the treats supplement, not substitute, your foundation.

Take a moment to reframe the way you think about whole vs. processed vs. ultra-processed foods. For example, a homemade slice of chocolate cake at the end of the day might actually support your mental and emotional well-being more than a protein bar — especially if you've already met your protein needs for the day. That cake likely includes familiar, real-food ingredients like eggs, milk, butter, and flour, and may leave you feeling more satisfied than a heavily engineered snack with marginal nutritional benefit in that moment.

True wellness isn’t about always choosing the “healthiest-sounding” option — it’s about knowing what’s enough, and giving yourself permission to enjoy the process of nourishing your body.