The Link Between Ultra-Processed Foods and Health Risks

Instead of focusing on calories or macronutrients, experts suggest considering the level of food processing when making dietary choices. Ultra-processed foods, which make up a significant portion of the American diet, lack fiber, contain high amounts of added sugar, salt, and fat, and have a long list of unrecognizable ingredients on their nutrition labels. Consuming a diet high in ultra-processed foods has been linked to health issues such as diabetes, cancer, and all-cause mortality. These foods also have addictive qualities and can lead to intense cravings, loss of control, withdrawal symptoms, and continued use despite negative consequences. Identifying which foods are most addictive and finding ways to change the modern food environment are ongoing challenges.