In recent years, there has been a growing body of evidence linking the consumption of ultra-processed foods to negative health outcomes. A new 30-year study has found that those who eat the most ultra-processed foods have a 4% higher risk of death by any cause, including a 9% increased risk of neurodegenerative deaths. The study involved over 100,000 U.S. adults with no history of cancer, cardiovascular disease or diabetes and found that certain ultra-processed foods such as processed meats, sugary drinks and dairy-based desserts were the biggest culprits for increased mortality risk.
Participants in the study were asked to complete a detailed food questionnaire every four years, with their consumption of ultra-processed foods being categorized into groups. The researchers found that the overall quality of a person's diet was the most important factor in reducing the risk of death, with a healthy diet including varied fruits and vegetables, whole grains and limiting consumption of ultra-processed foods.
In addition to increased mortality risk, previous research has found that diets high in ultra-processed food are associated with an increased risk of 32 damaging health outcomes, including higher risks for cancer, major heart and lung conditions, gastrointestinal issues, obesity, type 2 diabetes and early death.
The study adds to the growing evidence supporting the idea that limiting consumption of certain types of ultra-processed foods is important for long term health. Future studies are also needed to confirm these findings in other populations and improve the classification of ultra-processed foods. In the meantime, it's advisable to limit consumption of processed meats, sugary drinks and dairy-based desserts and focus on a diet rich in whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins to promote optimal health.
In conclusion, the new 30-year study highlights the importance of limiting consumption of certain types of ultra-processed foods for long term health. The findings provide support for avoiding processed meats and sugary foods and drinks while focusing on a diet rich in whole foods to reduce the risk of negative health outcomes. Future research is needed to confirm these findings in other populations and improve the classification of ultra-processed foods.