Link Between Ultra-Processed Foods and Increased Risk of Chronic Diseases

Recent research from the University of Washington's Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation highlights that consuming ultra-processed foods—even in moderate amounts—can significantly elevate the risk of developing chronic illnesses such as type 2 diabetes, ischemic heart disease, and colorectal cancer. The study emphasizes that processed meats, sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs), and trans fatty acids (TFAs) are key dietary factors linked to these health issues.

The research analyzed large datasets from numerous cohort and case-control studies, involving over a million participants. Findings reveal that consuming processed meats ranging from as little as 0.6 grams up to 57 grams daily correlates with an 11% increased risk of type 2 diabetes, with the risk reaching 30% at a 50-gram intake. Similarly, daily intake of processed meats is associated with a 26% higher risk of colorectal cancer and a 15% increased risk of ischemic heart disease.

For sugar-sweetened beverages, intake levels from 1.5 grams to 390 grams per day were linked to at least an 8% higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The risk increment is estimated at 20% at a daily intake of 250 grams. Consumption of trans fats, accounting for 0.25% to 2.56% of daily energy intake, was associated with a 3% increase in the risk of ischemic heart disease, with the risk rising to 11% at 1% energy intake.

The study underscores that even low levels of consumption can pose significant health risks, with the highest increases observed at habitual intakes equivalent to less than one serving daily. These findings reinforce existing public health recommendations to reduce intake of processed meats, sugar-sweetened beverages, and industrial trans fats.

Given the global burden of diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and colorectal cancer, these results support measures such as bans on industrial trans fats and taxes on sugary drinks, aiming to improve population health. The authors note that cutting back on even moderate consumption of these foods can provide meaningful health benefits.

Source: medicalxpress.com