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4h ago

Global Study Links Ultra-Processed Foods to Thousands of Preventable Deaths

New research shows a 3% rise in mortality risk for every 10% increase in ultra-processed food consumption, prompting calls for dietary policy changes.

High consumption of ultra-processed foods has been associated with 32 different diseases.
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Overview

  • A study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine analyzed dietary and mortality data from eight countries, including the UK and US.
  • The research found that ultra-processed foods (UPFs) account for 53% of daily energy intake in the UK and 55% in the US, the highest among the nations studied.
  • The study estimates that nearly 18,000 premature deaths in the UK in 2018/19 could be linked to UPF consumption, with similar impacts seen in other high-income countries.
  • Experts are urging governments to incorporate UPF reduction into national dietary guidelines and adopt regulatory measures to promote healthier food environments.
  • Nutritionists recommend practical food swaps, such as replacing sugary cereals with plain oats and flavored yogurts with plain Greek yogurt, to help individuals reduce UPF intake.