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Steffan’s Story: The Power of Saying Goodbye… to Ultra-Processed Foods
In March 2024, Welsh journalist Steffan Rhys became a living example of how a small, radical-but-doable decision can bring big results. He decided to cut ultra-processed foods out of his diet. Out went candy, mass-produced cookies with ingredient lists longer than your arm, and meals where the packaging reads more like a chemistry equation than a recipe.
What happened? In just two months, Steffan lost 5 kilograms (that’s about 11 pounds!)—without a restrictive diet, calorie-tracking app, or kitchen scale. More importantly, he found himself feeling better physically and mentally, all without any joyless bean counting.
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Ultra-Processed vs. Processed: The Crucial Distinction
But wait—a disclaimer! Steffan didn’t banish every processed food from his kitchen. Bread, plain yogurt, cheese… these stayed firmly on the menu. Why? Because while they’re processed, they’re not “ultra-processed.” That difference matters. For instance, plain yogurt is just fermented milk and cultures. Once you throw in sweeteners, modified starch, or artificial flavors, things get a little… complicated, to say the least.
Back to Basics—But Keep It Simple
What makes Steffan’s approach inspiring is its simplicity. No need to go full “organic homesteader” overnight. It’s simply about coming back to home cooking with whole or minimally processed foods. And this isn’t code for “spend your life in the kitchen.” Steffan still buys practical, convenient products—he just checks those ingredient lists and opts for items with fewer additives and more recognizable ingredients.
His favorite trick? Swapping out ready meals for easy, honest combos:
- A can of lentils
- Some fresh or frozen veggies
- A splash of olive oil
And voilà! Add a simply prepared protein like eggs, canned sardines, or leftover roast chicken, and you’ve got yourself a complete, satisfying meal—minus any mystery additives.
Forget Perfection: Progress Over Extremes
Here’s the refreshing bit: don’t hunt for perfection. Even Steffan admits he sometimes strays. What matters is the general trend, not hard-and-fast purity.
Feeling more energized, lighter in body and mind, without deprivation or obsessing over every last calorie—it’s totally possible. Sometimes all it takes is stepping back, taking a good look at what’s really on your plate, and getting back to simpler, more transparent food.
And maybe, just maybe, that’s the true secret to lasting well-being.
Mathilde, a web editor specialized in cooking, shares accessible recipes, practical tips, and creative ideas to inspire anyone who loves good food. Her passion? Celebrating the joy of cooking and the pleasure of sharing meals.
