Despite being a staple in many people’s diets, foods such as chips, industrial biscuits, soft drinks, and snacks are extremely harmful to health, especially for young people. These ultra-processed foods are designed to be palatable and create dependence, similar to the mechanisms of tobacco, alcohol, or cocaine.
An analysis published in the medical journal British Medical Journal found that 14% of adults and 12% of children have an addiction to ultra-processed foods. Lucia Caffino, a professor of Neurospicopharmacology at the University of Milan, explained that these foods can create cardiovascular problems, obesity, and compromise the development of children and adolescents, leading to problems later in adulthood.
Ultra-processed foods, including soft drinks, chips, and industrial biscuits, do not allow for a balanced diet if consumed continuously. Refined carbohydrates and added sugars can be very harmful to health, especially if consumed beyond our needs.
According to Caffino, addiction to ultra-processed foods manifests as a compulsive search for that food, leading to loss of control over intake and negative health effects such as obesity, cardiovascular events, and the formation of arteriosclerotic plaques.
The study also found that one in seven people is addicted to ultra-processed foods, and while some genetic mutations may predispose individuals to the risk of addiction, environmental factors and character traits also play a significant role.
Caffino emphasized the vulnerability of children and adolescents to the harmful effects of ultra-processed foods, as their brain and organs are still undergoing development. Consuming harmful substances during this vulnerable period can lead to problems later in adulthood, including neurodegenerative diseases.
The professor also suggested that campaigns and events may be necessary to inform, prevent, and raise awareness about the harm caused by ultra-processed foods, similar to the campaigns about the harm caused by nicotine. She also recommended that individuals recognize ultra-processed foods by reading nutrition labels and opt for alternatives such as cooking at home and reducing the intake of ready-made foods.
In conclusion, while ultra-processed foods are prevalent and addictive, Caffino emphasized the importance of revolutionizing the way we think to love ourselves, as even healthy foods can generate pleasure. This change in mindset, along with practicing healthy eating habits, can help individuals reduce their dependence on ultra-processed foods and improve their overall well-being.