In a revealing interview that challenges modern eating habits, one of Britain's top nutritionists has issued a stark warning about the hidden dangers lurking in our everyday foods. Gabriela Peacock, who counts royalty and celebrities among her clients, has declared she would never consume ultra-processed foods - and explains why you should think twice too.
The Hidden Dangers in Your Shopping Basket
Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) have become ubiquitous in British diets, making up nearly 60% of the average person's calorie intake. But according to Peacock, these convenient options come with a serious health cost that most consumers remain unaware of.
"I would never eat ultra-processed foods," states Peacock unequivocally. "They're designed to be over-consumed and contain ingredients you wouldn't find in a normal kitchen."
What Makes a Food Ultra-Processed?
Unlike simply processed items like tinned tomatoes or frozen vegetables, UPFs undergo multiple industrial processes and typically contain additives, preservatives, and artificial flavours. Common examples include:
- Mass-produced bread and baked goods
- Breakfast cereals with high sugar content
- Reconstituted meat products like sausages and burgers
- Instant noodles and soups
- Soft drinks and many packaged snacks
Simple Rules for Healthier Eating
Peacock, who runs the GP Nutrition clinic in London's prestigious Chelsea neighbourhood, advocates for a back-to-basics approach to eating. Her philosophy centres on three fundamental principles:
- Embrace home cooking: Preparing meals from scratch ensures you control exactly what goes into your food
- Read labels carefully: If you can't pronounce an ingredient or wouldn't find it in your kitchen cupboard, think twice about consuming it
- Focus on whole foods: Build your diet around vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains
The Real Impact on Your Health
Research increasingly links high consumption of UPFs to serious health conditions including obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and even certain cancers. Peacock notes that these foods are engineered to bypass our natural fullness signals, making overeating almost inevitable.
"These foods are designed to have what's called a 'hyper-palatability' - they're so tasty that we just want to keep eating them," she explains. "They disrupt our natural appetite regulation and often lack the nutrients our bodies truly need."
Making Healthier Choices Practical
While avoiding UPFs completely might seem challenging in today's busy world, Peacock emphasises that small, consistent changes can make a significant difference. She recommends starting with one meal at a time and focusing on adding nutritious whole foods rather than creating restrictive rules.
"It's not about perfection," Peacock assures. "It's about making better choices most of the time. Cooking simple meals, reading labels, and choosing whole foods wherever possible can dramatically improve your health without making life complicated."
As the conversation around ultra-processed foods continues to grow, Peacock's expert advice provides a clear roadmap for navigating the modern food landscape while prioritising long-term health and wellbeing.
