Research published by the Daily Mail Online has revealed the dangers of diets rich in ultra-processed foods. The study, which involved around 10 million people and scientists from the University of Sydney, found a strong link between the consumption of industrial foods and an increased risk of developing 32 health problems, including cancer, type 2 diabetes, and mental disorders.
The offending products are those that are high in fat, salt, and sugar, but low in essential vitamins and fiber. These foods often contain chemicals, colorants, sweeteners, and preservatives that are not typically used in home cooking. In the United Kingdom, around 57% of the national diet consists of ultra-processed foods such as ready meals, packaged foods, industrial cereals, carbonated drinks, protein bars, and fast food.
Consumption of these foods has been linked to a rise in diagnoses of heart disease, obesity, type 2 diabetes, lung disease, sleep problems, and anxiety-related disorders. The researchers are calling for public health guidelines to be developed around the sale of ultra-processed foods, including clear labeling.
Ultra-processed foods are believed to be a major contributing factor to obesity in the UK, costing the NHS around £6.5 billion annually. These products undergo multiple industrial processes which degrade the food’s physical structure, leading to rapid absorption, increased blood sugar levels, reduced satiety, and damage to the microbiota.
Comparing the impact of ultra-processed foods to cigarette smoking, researchers suggest imposing restrictions on their advertising and banning their sale near schools and hospitals. They also advocate for public dietary guidelines recommending minimally processed foods and making convenience foods healthier, more affordable, and accessible to all.
Brazilian academics from the University of Sao Paulo agree with the findings, stating that diets high in ultra-processed foods can harm various systems of the human body. They emphasize that the body may view these products as foreign, useless, or harmful substances.
The researchers urge governments to take action to address the risks associated with ultra-processed foods and promote healthier dietary choices for the public.