processed foods linked to worse health, study finds

Key Points:

• A new study published in Family Medicine and Community Health links higher consumption of ultra-processed foods to increased risks of heart disease, strokes, obesity, diabetes, depression, digestive issues, cancer, and death.
• Ultra-processed foods, which contain added sugars, salts, and fats and are engineered to be hyper-palatable, include packaged snacks, processed meats, sugary drinks, and ready-to-eat meals.
• The global review of over 50 studies involving nearly 9 million adults found that each additional 100 grams per day of ultra-processed food increased heart disease risk by 14% and blood pressure risk by 11%, with diabetes and obesity risks rising by 24% and 23%, respectively.
• Experts advise consumers to reduce ultra-processed food intake by choosing whole or minimally processed foods, reading ingredient lists carefully, and opting for frozen or canned options without added ingredients to improve overall health.
• Nutrition education and positive modeling at home are recommended strategies to help children make healthier food choices, while gradual substitution of ultra-processed items with whole foods is encouraged rather than complete elimination.