Does a low calorie diet consisting of mainly UPF vs same calorie diet of mainly whole foods, actually impede weight loss?
I'm 5ft1 and currently trying to lose weight on a 1300-1400 calorie diet. I do weight lifing, but i'm not consistent. I am more consistent with getting 10,000 to 15,000 steps a day. My diet so far consists of 1 pepsi max, 2 -3 (no added sugar) protein bars, 1 packet of crisps, then an actual meal in the evening which may still include UPF (for example Heck chicken sausages or M&S chicken slices or Gourmet lentil packets, which also includes UPF ingredients), but I will also include whole foods like cottage cheese, lentil soup, vegtables, eggs etc. (FYI, I only use the 1 cal oil spray occasionally, no other condiments, and no hidden calories).
I know the number of protein bars and snacks and UPF are not good for overall health, but I do like the taste, I like the convenience of calorie counting, I like not having to prep. But I am now trying to reduce my reliance on UPF.
My question is, on a diet with the same number of calories, with mostly whole foods, will I likely see faster weight loss?
I used to be able to lose weight quickly. But I am now in my 40s and find that it takes longer. I know age will have an impact but I wondered if my reliance on UPF is also slowing me down.
Edit: UPF: Ultra processed Foods