"The Dangers of Ultra-Processed Foods and the Rise of Plant-Based Diets"

A commentary by physicians from Florida Atlantic University’s Schmidt College of Medicine suggests that the unprecedented consumption of ultra-processed foods in the standard American diet may be a new "silent" killer, contributing to rising rates of non-communicable diseases. These foods, containing numerous additives and novel ingredients, are linked to obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and gastrointestinal diseases. The authors urge health care providers to discuss the benefits of increasing consumption of whole foods and reducing consumption of ultra-processed foods with their patients, while also highlighting the need for broader public health responses to promote healthier options and discourage the consumption of ultra-processed foods.