The “British Medical Journal” has published a groundbreaking review of international studies highlighting the detrimental health effects of ultra-processed foods. These industrial foods, which are loaded with added ingredients such as salt, sugar, colorings, and additives, have been linked to a range of serious health conditions including cancer, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, mental health problems, and premature death.
According to the review, global consumption of ultra-processed foods is on the rise, with some countries reporting that half of their diet consists of these unhealthy foods. Young people and those from disadvantaged social classes are particularly at risk, with their diets often made up of up to 80% ultra-processed foods.
The review, which involved nearly 10 million people and experts from leading institutions around the world, underscores the urgent need for measures to reduce exposure to ultra-processed foods in order to protect public health. Previous studies have linked these foods to various health issues, but this comprehensive review provides a broad assessment of the evidence in this area.
Diets high in ultra-processed foods have been shown to have direct associations with 32 health parameters, including mortality, cancer, mental health disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic health outcomes. Higher intake of these foods has been linked to a 50% increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease, a 48-53% higher risk of anxiety and mental disorders, and a 12% higher risk of type 2 diabetes.
While the evidence for associations between ultra-processed foods and other health conditions like asthma, gastrointestinal issues, certain cancers, and cardiometabolic risk factors is limited, the researchers urge caution in consuming these products. Ultra-processed foods, which undergo multiple industrial processes and contain high levels of added sugars, fats, and salt, are low in essential nutrients like vitamins and fiber.
In light of these findings, experts are calling for public health interventions to reduce the consumption of ultra-processed foods and improve overall diet quality to protect the health of the population.