Yes, I would agree that the last sentence there is really important! Lack of ultra-processed foods in the diet and high consumption of nutrient-dense real foods would certainly be expected to be health-promoting.

I’m not sure about the extent that ultra-processed foods were consumed in European from the 1950s-1970s but they may not be specific to France.

Overall, a multitude of factors likely contributed to the French Paradox finding. France has some unique cheeses and there is a mechanism through short-chain fatty acids that might contribute to better cardiovascular health. Also, another thing I didn’t talk about for lack of space is the attitude towards food and how meals are consumed. Also, the French Paradox could be regional within France. There is certainly room for more discussion on this topic!