Ultra-processed foods linked to reduced mental wellbeing and cognitive control in a global study

A global study of 400,787 adults across 60 countries finds that frequent ultra-processed food intake is associated with lower mental wellbeing and higher clinical distress, including poorer cognitive control and depressive symptoms. The effect is dose‑dependent with intake frequency and remains after adjusting for exercise and trauma; the authors estimate 3.4%–7.8% of global mental distress could be linked to such diets, especially among young adults in English-speaking nations. Because the study is cross‑sectional, causality can’t be established; researchers call for longitudinal studies and policy actions like labeling or taxation to shift consumption.