Free Audiobook : Ultra-Processed People, by Chris van Tulleken

It's not about you; it's about the food.

Ever wondered how much of your daily caloric intake consists of substances that, technically, don't fit the conventional definition of "food"? If you find yourself consuming something wrapped in plastic with unfamiliar ingredients not found in your kitchen, chances are it's most likely—almost certainly—ultra-processed food, or UPF. Beyond just being a challenge to "eating right," UPF has been associated with metabolic disease, depression, inflammation, anxiety, and cancer. Moreover, the production, distribution, and disposal of UPF and related products globally wreak havoc on the environment. Simultaneously, UPF has become the prevailing, nearly unavoidable food culture for millions upon millions of individuals.

Dr. Chris van Tulleken, a medical doctor and broadcaster, has dedicated his career to reframing the conversation about healthy eating. He strikes a balance between presenting the harsh (and occasionally startling) truths about what we're putting into our bodies and understanding the natural desire to continue consuming what we enjoy, what fits into our schedules, and what we can afford. In this book, he argues that we are all unwitting participants in an experiment designed to encourage us to consume as much ultra-processed food as possible. It's not as straightforward as stumbling upon the latest diet trend, finding time to plan meals, or avoiding overindulgence in sugar, fat, carbs, or any other dietary component. It's not solely a matter of personal willpower either. Instead, it's about adapting to "the third age of eating"—an era characterized by the overwhelming prevalence of ultra-processed food options—and equipping yourself with both simple and not-so-simple facts to make choices that align with your well-being.