The dangers of ultra-processed foods are becoming increasingly recognized by books such as: super processed people Topping the bestseller list, hundreds of thousands of people have signed up for Professor Tim Spector’s Zoe’s Meal and Nutrition Plan.
A study conducted this year by Harvard University’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health analyzed the diet and health of more than 114,000 American adults over 30 years. The study found that people who consumed the most ultra-processed foods had a 4% higher risk of death from any cause and an 8% higher risk of death from neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia.
Four main types of ultra-processed foods associated with increased mortality risk were identified:
- processed meat
- drinks with artificial sweeteners
- dairy-based desserts
- Ultra-processed breakfast foods (such as cereals)
Processed meat has been reported to be most strongly associated with increased risk of all-cause mortality. sally live.
Nevertheless, the researchers emphasized that the overall quality of the diet may be the most important factor. “Cereals, whole-grain breads…which are also considered ultra-processed foods, contain a variety of beneficial nutrients such as fiber, vitamins, and minerals,” said report author Ming-Yan Song, associate professor of clinical epidemiology and nutrition. ‘
“On the other hand, I think people should try to avoid or limit their intake of certain ultra-processed foods, such as processed meats, sugar-sweetened beverages, and even beverages that may contain artificial sweeteners. If they maintain a generally healthy diet, I don’t think they need to be scared. ”
Why are ultra-processed foods bad for you?
Ultra-processed foods often contain chemical additives and are significantly altered from their original form. These foods, which often undergo extensive industrial processing, are specifically designed to increase consumer appeal through long shelf life, maximizing producers’ profits, and enhancing flavor. Such products often contain excessive amounts of salt, sugar and fat.
The effects of consuming ultra-processed foods (UPF) are becoming more apparent than we are aware of, as increasing evidence links them to a variety of health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, obesity, gastrointestinal disease, and depression. It may be even more widespread than it is. An individual who drastically cut UPF from his diet experienced dramatic physical changes and reported noticeable changes.
However, while the relationship between UPF and chronic disease is becoming increasingly recognized, some scientists also note the limitations of observational studies. They can show correlation, but not necessarily causation.
Interestingly, a Harvard study found that the association between UPF intake and mortality decreased when researchers considered overall diet quality. Basically, adhering to a high-quality diet rich in vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole grains may counteract the negative effects of UPF intake.
What is ultra-processed food?
Dr Chris van Taleken is an infectious disease doctor at UCL and a best-selling author. super processed peoplesimplifies it nicely. “If it’s wrapped in plastic and contains at least one ingredient not typically found in your home kitchen, it’s an ultra-processed food.”
