Ultra-Processed People - Insights from Chris van Tulleken

In a nutshell, what’s the book about, and why did you choose it?

Ultra-Processed People is a shocking and educational deep dive into the evolution of our food, with a particular focus on the ultra-processed products of today. It is an eye-opening account revealing how many of the familiar items we consume daily are engineered using industrial processes and ingredients. These products are designed to maximise profit, often being marketed as beneficial for our health, despite evidence to the contrary. The result is a startling insight into the disconnect between what we believe we’re eating and what we’re actually consuming.

The title hooked me from the moment I first read it, particularly the subtitle, "Why Do We All Eat Stuff That Isn’t Food... and Why Can’t We Stop?" As someone with a keen interest in food and nutrition, I was intrigued by the suggestion that some of what I might be eating may not even be considered ‘real’ food.

What was your biggest takeaway or “aha” moment?

The biggest takeaway for me was learning about the deceptive nature of modern food packaging - particularly the 'Front of Pack' traffic light system. While it gives the illusion of transparency regarding a product’s healthiness, it often ignores the hidden dangers within the ingredients list, creating a false sense of what is ‘healthy’ and what is not. The book really highlighted how easily consumers are misled, and how important it is that we take responsibility for understanding what we’re eating, rather than relying solely on regulatory bodies. Especially considering that the regulators involved in these discussions are often the same individuals creating the products themselves.

Has this book changed your perspective or approach to health, wellbeing, or the mind-body connection? If so, how?

This book has significantly changed my approach to health and wellbeing, particularly in relation to diet and nutrition. The biggest shift for me has been taking the time to read and scan food labels to identify potentially harmful ingredients, allowing me to make more informed choices about what I consume.

Understanding how these processed products can impair the body’s natural ability to regulate itself has encouraged me to prioritise natural, whole foods. Whole foods support clearer internal communication between the brain and body, enabling accurate cues for hunger and fullness - which are essential for healthy, balanced eating.

Which specific concept or chapter stood out to you the most?

The concept that stood out most to me was the deliberately addictive nature of ultra-processed foods (UPFs), which are engineered for overconsumption. Dr Chris discusses the striking similarities between UPF addiction and substance misuse, highlighting that, in some cases, UPFs may be even more addictive than smoking, alcohol, or other drugs. He offers a refreshing and compassionate perspective on why so many people find it difficult to reduce these foods or adhere to diets, shifting the focus away from willpower and towards the powerful biochemical and psychological responses these foods trigger.

How might this book benefit your patients, or how could they apply its principles?

This book offers another valuable layer for anyone to consider during their wellness journey. While clinical care plays an important role in recovery and health optimisation, the decisions people make outside of the clinic - particularly surrounding nutrition, sleep, and exercise - are just as important.

Ultra-Processed People provides a deeper understanding of how modern diets can impact physical and mental health. By raising awareness of the hidden effects of UPFs, people can feel more empowered to make informed food choices that support better healing outcomes, energy levels, weight management, and long-term wellbeing. Applying these principles could help to create a lifestyle environment that complements and accelerates progress in care.

If you could recommend just one key idea from the book for daily life, what would it be?

If I could recommend just one idea for daily life from Ultra-Processed People, it would be the importance of personally assessing the food we consume, rather than blindly trusting marketing or convenience. Dr Chris highlights how large food corporations often prioritise profit over public health, creating products designed to encourage overconsumption rather than providing nourishment.

“We must take back control of our diets and prioritise whole, nourishing foods” - Chris Van Tulleken.

Book Review by Dr Natalie Mackay DC