Will Nutritional Intelligence Guide You to Whole Instead of Ultra-Processed Foods?

From Newswise

What if the reason we overeat isn’t just about willpower… but how food is designed?

Jeff Brunstrom, Professor of Experimental Psychology at the University of Bristol, studies how our brains and bodies shape the way we eat.

His research reveals something surprising: when people eat ultra-processed foods, they tend to consume hundreds of extra calories, even when the meals look similar in nutrients. These foods are often engineered with the perfect mix of fat and carbs, making them easy to overeat.

On the other hand, whole foods like fruits and vegetables work differently. You can eat more of them, but still take in fewer calories. He also introduces the idea of “nutritional intelligence,” the possibility that our bodies quietly guide us toward the nutrients we need. Understanding this could change how we think about diet, not as a matter of discipline, but as a system we can work with, not against.

The latest episode of the Curious by Nature podcast, “Will Nutritional Intelligence Guide You to Whole Instead of Ultra-Processed Foods?,” featuring Professor Jeff Brunstrom is now available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

About Curious by Nature

Presented by Newswise, Curious by Nature is a podcast for curious people. In each episode, listeners can briefly travel into the fascinating world that comes with years of dedication to a field of study. Be inspired by the many amazing things that are going on right now, some of which may have a major effect on our lives. Enjoy this concentrated knowledge from experts. We hope you find inspiration in glimpses of innovation, dedication, and discovery. Follow: Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/yuyx9anp – Apple Podcast: https://tinyurl.com/2e685hmt