The Truth About Processed Foods: Separating Fact from Fiction.
The demonization of processed foods is unnecessary as there are different levels of refinement in our supermarket shelves. Sports nutrition products are ultra-processed foods that provide quick simple energy, while "real food" fueling like bananas or dried fruits contain essential nutrients but may cause gastrointestinal distress during exercise. The choice between the two comes down to personal preference, tolerability, and affordability. In training, fueled is best, and as intensity increases, so often does the need for more simple-sugar fueling strategies.