The food industry has changed, therefore so have we. The old saying still stands: 'You are what you eat'.
- alex stretton
- Dec 14, 2025
- 3 min read
Our relationship with food has shifted dramatically over the past few decades. The rise of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) has transformed what ends up on our plates, and with it, the way our bodies and minds respond. At the same time, the nutritional value of even whole or organic foods has declined due to modern farming pressures. Understanding these changes is key to making informed choices about what we eat and how it affects our health.
What Are Ultra-Processed Foods and Why Are They Everywhere?
Ultra-processed foods are industrial formulations made mostly from substances extracted from foods, derived from food constituents, or synthesized in laboratories. They often contain additives like preservatives, flavor enhancers, and artificial colors. Examples include sugary cereals, packaged snacks, ready meals, and many fast-food items.
These foods are convenient, affordable, and heavily marketed, which makes them hard to avoid in daily life. Supermarkets and food chains prioritize shelf life and taste over nutrition, pushing UPFs into the spotlight. For many people, especially those with busy schedules or limited access to fresh produce, UPFs become a staple.
The Effects of Ultra-Processed Foods on the Body and Mind
Eating large amounts of UPFs over a long period can have serious consequences:
Nutrient Deficiency
UPFs often lack essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Relying on them can lead to deficiencies that affect energy, immunity, and overall health.
Weight Gain and Metabolic Issues
High in sugars, unhealthy fats, and calories, UPFs contribute to obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes.
Digestive Problems
Low fiber content and additives can disrupt gut health, causing bloating, constipation, or discomfort.
Mental Health Impact
Studies link diets high in UPFs with increased risks of depression and anxiety. The lack of nutrients that support brain function plays a role.
Addictive Qualities
The combination of sugar, fat, and salt in UPFs can trigger cravings, making it harder to choose healthier options.
Why Nutritional Value Has Dropped Even in Whole and Organic Foods
You might think switching to whole or organic foods solves the problem, but farming practices have changed too. Farmers face pressure to meet supermarket demands for quantity, appearance, and price. This often means:
Soil Depletion
Intensive farming reduces soil nutrients, which lowers the vitamin and mineral content of crops.
Shorter Harvest Times
Crops are picked earlier to extend shelf life, which can reduce nutrient levels.
Selective Breeding for Yield
Plants bred for size and appearance may have less nutritional density.
As a result, even organic or whole foods today may not provide the same level of nutrition as they did decades ago.
Why Supplements Have Become More Relevant
Years ago, most people could get all their necessary nutrients from food alone. Today, with the rise of UPFs and the decline in nutrient density of fresh foods, supplements have become more important for many.
Supplements can help fill nutritional gaps, support digestion, and improve metabolism. They are especially useful for people with busy lifestyles or dietary restrictions.
How CoreLab Naturals Gummies Support Your Health
CoreLab Naturals offers gummies designed to help your body process food more efficiently and support weight management. Their benefits include:
Improved Digestion
Ingredients that help break down food reduce bloating and discomfort.
Faster Metabolism
Boosting metabolic rate helps the body use energy more effectively.
Appetite Control
Over time, these gummies can help suppress appetite, reducing overeating.
Support for Healthy Weight Loss
By combining digestion, metabolism, and appetite benefits, they provide a natural aid for weight management.
Using such supplements alongside a balanced diet can make it easier to maintain health despite the challenges posed by modern food.
Practical Tips for Navigating Today’s Food Landscape
Read Labels Carefully
Watch for added sugars, artificial ingredients, and long lists of chemicals.
Choose Whole Foods When Possible
Fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and lean proteins offer better nutrition.
Cook at Home More Often
Preparing meals lets you control ingredients and avoid UPFs.
Consider Supplements Wisely
Use products like CoreLab Naturals gummies to support digestion and metabolism, but consult a healthcare provider if needed.
Stay Hydrated and Active
Water and exercise help your body process food and maintain energy.
Final Thoughts on Food and Health Today
The food industry has changed, and so have the challenges we face in maintaining good health. Ultra-processed foods are hard to avoid, and even whole foods may not be as nutritious as before. Understanding these realities helps us make better choices.
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