Study highlights the disadvantages of ultra-processed foods

According to over 30 years of research, eating ultra-processed foods is related to an early risk of death.

Ultra-processed foods differ significantly from their original state and typically contain manufactured ingredients reminiscent of preservatives, artificial colours, emulsifiers, added sugar, salt and fats to make the food more appealing. Ultra-processed foods include soda, potato chips, cakes, nuggets and ice cream.

The study was published Wednesday in the diaryexperts analyzed data from greater than 100,000 health care employees in the United States who had no history of cancer, heart problems or diabetes. Participants provided biannual updates on their health and lifestyle habits.

The group that ate the least ultra-processed foods ate a median of about three servings a day, while the largest group ate about seven servings a day. The data showed that individuals who ate the most had a 4% higher risk of death from any cause, including a 9% increased risk of death from neurodegenerative diseases.

According to the study’s lead creator, Dr. Mingyang Song, an associate professor of clinical epidemiology and nutrition at the University, processed meats, sugary foods and drinks don’t appear to hold the same risks as ultra-processed whole grains. TH Chan School of Public Health at Harvard.

“For example, cereals and whole grain bread are also considered ultra-processed foods, but they contain various beneficial nutrients such as fiber, vitamins and minerals.” – he said in an interview for CNN.

Dr. Peter Wilde, retired from the Quadram Institute Bioscience in the UK, said that while the results of this latest study are significant because of the 30-year period, they don’t provide definitive proof that ultra-processed foods result in death. However, it recommends that individuals limit their consumption of these products.

“If you’re concerned about food additives, choose foods that are low in additives,” he told CNN. “Just be careful about the nutritional value of the (ultra-processed foods) you choose,” he said.