13 May 2024 – A comprehensive 30-year study conducted in the United States has revealed a concerning association between the consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) and an increased risk of death. The research, published in BMJ, highlights that a higher intake of certain types of UPFs, such as ready-to-eat meat, sugary drinks, and dairy-based desserts, is linked to a “slightly higher” risk of mortality.
The study, which tracked 74,563 female registered nurses and 39,501 male health professionals over three decades, found that individuals in the highest quarter of UPF consumption faced a 4% higher risk of total deaths compared to those in the lowest quarter. This elevated risk extended to other causes of death, including neurodegenerative diseases.
Lead author Dr. Aisling Daly, a lecturer in nutrition at Oxford Brookes University, UK, acknowledges the significance of the research. She notes that while the findings underscore the need to limit certain types of UPFs for long-term health, there is a pressing need for a more nuanced classification system to help individuals make informed dietary choices.
The study’s setup involved regular health and lifestyle assessments of participants, along with detailed dietary questionnaires every four years. Notably, the analysis incorporated the Alternative Healthy Eating Index-2010 score to evaluate overall dietary quality.
While the study found no significant associations between UPF consumption and deaths from cardiovascular diseases, cancer, or respiratory diseases, it underscored the importance of considering diet quality in assessing health outcomes. Dr. Duane Mellor, a dietitian and spokesperson for the British Dietetic Association, emphasizes that individuals consuming an overall healthy diet seemed to mitigate the adverse effects of UPFs on mortality.
The study also challenges the simplistic classification of UPFs, highlighting the complexity of their health effects. It suggests that the categorization of UPFs into distinct groups may not fully capture their impact on health, potentially leading to misconceptions among consumers.
Dr. Daly stresses that not all UPFs are inherently unhealthy, noting their affordability and nutritional benefits in some cases. However, she warns against the overconsumption of UPFs high in saturated fat, sugar, and salt, emphasizing the importance of balanced dietary choices.
In conclusion, while the study provides valuable insights into the risks associated with UPF consumption, it underscores the need for a more nuanced understanding of dietary choices and their impact on long-term health. Efforts to improve food labeling and consumer education are essential in addressing the confusion surrounding UPFs and promoting healthier eating habits.