15/04/2026
Because a black and white statement like this is both factually incorrect, but also just really unhelpful 🥹
So let’s unpack!!
Firstly, MOST foods we eat are ‘processed’ to some degree…oats, rice, tinned beans, frozen vegetables, yoghurt, tofu, mince, bread, peanut butter…are ALL processed foods, and yet very nutrient dense and healthy foods ✅
Secondly, even more highly processed foods that aren’t very nutritious have their place and are not inherently ‘bad’ for us and going to cause harm.
CONTEXT is key: how often we’re eating it for example, or our overall energy requirements and individual circumstances, just to name a few 😌
For example:
• Having lollies or sports drink during training to help fuel the session.
• Adding juice and flavoured milk drinks to meals, or choosing more refined carb options like cereal, to help meet high energy requirements and prevent underfuelling/REDS.
• Eating some foods just for enjoyment, like a pastry and coffee with a friend, or some chocolate after dinner.
As part of an overall balanced and well rounded diet, is not ‘bad’ for you, and in many cases, like when it helps you actually meet your nutritional/energy needs, and have a much healthier relationship with food, actually GOOD for you.
So next time you have a thought like this, I challenge you to ask yourself ‘What do I actually mean?’❤️🔥❤️🔥
