This randomized clinical trial compared two diets for individuals with obesity. One group followed a plan with energy restriction and limits on ultra-processed foods. The other group followed a plan with energy restriction but no specific limits on ultra-processed foods. Both groups were followed for 12 months.
The group limiting ultra-processed foods lost more weight than the group with only calorie limits. They also reduced their intake of ultra-processed foods and improved their overall food quality score. The difference in weight loss was statistically significant but described as non-clinically significant.
No serious adverse events were reported, and no participants discontinued the study due to safety issues. However, the study had a limitation because participants started with low intake of ultra-processed foods. Readers should understand that while the results are promising, this is an early trial with a small group of 148 people.