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Beware ‘vanishing caloric density,' it can lead to weight gain
New York Post • • health
Key Points:
- "Vanishing caloric density" refers to airy, ultra-processed snacks that dissolve quickly in the mouth, tricking the brain into underestimating calorie intake and potentially leading to overeating.
- Examples of such snacks include cheese puffs, chips, popcorn, cotton candy, ice cream, and wafer cookies, which combine fat and sugar in a way that makes them easy to consume rapidly.
- This phenomenon disrupts the body's natural hunger signals and fullness recognition, as the brain takes time to register calorie intake, increasing the risk of excessive calorie consumption and weight gain.
- Regular consumption of these ultra-processed foods can crowd out nutrient-dense options and raise the risk of chronic diseases such as Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer.
- Experts advise focusing on whole foods rich in protein, fiber, and healthy fats, reading ingredient labels to avoid highly processed items, and practicing mindful eating by avoiding distractions and preportioning snacks.
