It’s linked to healthier arteries.
A recent study conducted by researchers, including Erikka Loftfield from the National Cancer Institute (NCI), underscores the significant health risks associated with consuming ultra-processed foods. These foods, characterized by their high content of extracted substances like fats, sugars, and additives such as colors and flavors, have been linked to an increased likelihood of premature death, especially from conditions like heart disease and diabetes.
The study, based on data from over 540,000 individuals aged 50 to 71, tracked participants’ dietary habits and health outcomes over an average of 23 years. It revealed that older adults who consumed higher amounts of ultra-processed foods faced a notable 10% higher risk of mortality compared to those who consumed less of these products.
Researchers highlighted specific items like soft drinks and heavily processed meats (e.g., hot dogs, sausages, deli meats) as particularly concerning due to their strong association with increased mortality risk. These findings support existing recommendations for maintaining a diet low in these foods to promote better health and reduce disease risk.
Even after adjusting for other health factors, the study found a clear correlation between higher consumption of ultra-processed foods and a heightened risk of early death, specifically from heart disease and diabetes. Interestingly, the study did not find a similar association with mortality from cancer.
The implications of these findings suggest that dietary choices play a crucial role in long-term health outcomes, reinforcing the importance of avoiding excessive consumption of ultra-processed foods. Loftfield and her team emphasized that while the study adds to the growing body of evidence linking these foods to adverse health effects, further research is needed to better understand the specific mechanisms and components within ultra-processed foods that contribute to these risks.
Presented at the American Society for Nutrition’s annual meeting in Chicago, these findings provide valuable insights into the potential health impacts of ultra-processed foods and underscore the need for ongoing research and public health initiatives aimed at promoting healthier dietary choices.
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