Researchers conducted a comprehensive review of 45 meta-analyses from 14 papers showing an association between ultra-processed foods and adverse health outcomes. In total, the research involved nearly 10 million participants.

Meal frequency questionnaires, dietary history, and 24-hour dietary recalls were used to measure exposure to ultra-processed foods.

Researchers reported that high intake of ultra-processed foods is consistently associated with an increased risk of 32 adverse health effects.

Researchers have linked ultra-processed foods to all causes of death, breast cancer, colorectal cancer, pancreatic cancer, sleep disorders, anxiety disorders, asthma, hypertension, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, obesity, metabolic syndrome, and non-disease conditions. He said he discovered a relationship between – Alcoholic fatty liver disease, hyperglycemia, among other diseases and conditions.

They reported a 50% increased risk of death related to cardiovascular disease, a 12% increased risk of type 2 diabetes, and a 48% to 53% increased risk of anxiety and mental disorders.

High intakes of ultra-processed foods were also found to be associated with a 21% increased risk of death from any cause and a 22% increased risk of depression.

The researchers argue that their findings suggest that ultra-processed foods may be harmful to many body systems and highlight the need for urgent measures to reduce dietary exposure to ultra-processed foods. ing.

“In combination with existing population-based strategies, a comprehensive population-based strategy that includes urgent mechanistic research and government-led policy frameworks and dietary guidelines aimed at targeting and reducing dietary exposure to ultra-processed foods. “We recommend the development and evaluation of public health strategies that have improved human health,” they wrote.

Ultra-processed foods include instant noodles, chicken nuggets, hot dogs, convenience foods, sugar-rich cereals, packaged baked goods, snacks, and soft drinks.

These foods often undergo many industrial processes and may consist of chemically modified substances extracted from the food.

Additives are sometimes used along with colorants, flavors, and emulsifiers to improve the appearance, texture, taste, and durability of foods.

Ultra-processed foods are often high in salt, sugar, and fat, low in vitamins and fiber, and contain little or no whole foods.

“Ultra-processed foods are foods that are completely dissimilar in their constituent parts and ingredients. Ultra-processed foods are (essentially) stripped of nutritional value. They also contain food additives that are not used in home cooking They also contain many ingredients, including (hydrogenated fats, modified starches, etc.). These foods are mainly produced industrially and have long-term storage,” said a person not involved in the study. said Dr. Dana Hannes, senior clinical dietitian at UCLA Medical Center. Today’s medical news.

“Unfortunately, ultra-processed foods are cheap to buy. [but] It’s expensive in terms of health,” she added. “Individuals need to consider what they can tolerate in their diet and make gradual changes. Our brains become addicted to these highly palatable flavors and ingredients, much like drugs. , we need to stop eating these ultra-processed foods and replace them with healthier whole foods.”

about 73% The majority of the U.S. food supply consists of ultra-processed foods.

According to research, 60% 80% of the United States’ daily energy intake comes from ultra-processed foods.

Experts say part of the appeal of ultra-processed foods is that they are often cheap and convenient.

“Many of the foods we eat are not very nutritious. Why choose them? Because they are convenient, delicious, don’t cost much, and are available 24/7. “It’s because they have access to every day of their lives,” said Dr. Christopher Gardner, a nutrition researcher at Stanford University in California who was not involved in the study.Said Today’s medical news.

But Gardner argues that in some cases, some ultra-processed foods can be a healthier option than other available options.

“Some people choose these foods probably because they are healthier than other foods and because they are available at a lower cost. So if you walk into a store and… What if you saw a tomato sauce or yogurt labeled as ultra-processed? That’s plausible, because some tomato sauce or yogurt does not qualify as ultra-processed. “Because you have something to fill. So you went to a fast food restaurant and got a hamburger and fries instead?” he said.

Experts say there are steps people can take to improve their diets and reduce the risks associated with consuming ultra-processed foods.

“Ultra-processed foods have become such a staple of the American diet that many people are unaware of the potential harm they can cause to their health. People turn to ultra-processed foods because they don’t have the time. “However, convenience can be harmful to health,” said Dr. Lori Wright, president of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, who was not involved in the study. Today’s medical news.

“Try switching to minimally processed foods instead of ultra-processed foods,” she suggested. “Eat out less, and when you do eat out, make healthier choices, such as a grilled chicken sandwich, fruit cup, and water or low-fat milk instead of a hamburger, fries, and soda.”

“Finally, let’s make more food at home,” Wright added. “This requires advance planning, batch cooking, and utilizing convenient methods like the Instapot or slow cooker. Make your own kale chips, roast chickpeas, or eat nuts instead of chips. If you have a sweet tooth, sprinkle some berries on Greek yogurt, freeze grapes for flavor, or make your own trail mix.”