A new study suggests that consuming ultra-processed foods could be putting young men’s heart and reproductive health at risk, even if they don’t consume more calories than usual.

The study, published late last month in the journal Cell Metabolism, looked at 43 men aged 20 to 35. The participants alternated between a diet high in ultra-processed foods and a diet largely free of them for three weeks. The results showed that even when the amounts of calories, protein, fat and carbohydrates were the same, the men on the ultra-processed diet gained significantly more weight and had worse cholesterol levels.

The difference in weight status was “one of the most surprising findings,” said Jessica Preston, the study’s lead author. She explained that differences in the fiber, nutrients and metabolic effects of the foods could be the reason for this.

The study also found that a diet high in processed foods reduced sperm quality and motility and lowered levels of reproductive hormones, including testosterone.

The researchers emphasize that even a short break from consuming ultra-processed foods can be beneficial for heart health, metabolism and fertility. Preston cautioned, however, that the findings should not be interpreted as a recommendation to completely eliminate these types of foods from the diet, but rather to substitute more natural, less processed options when possible.

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