Navigating ultraprocessed foods in the United States
Experts revealed the potential adverse health effects of ultraprocessed foods.
Ultraprocessed foods are prevalent in the U.S. diet and could comprise up to two-thirds of the foods consumed by children, according to a news report from The Associated Press. Previous studies have linked these types of foods to obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, dementia, mental health issues such as depression and early mortality. However, these studies have not demonstrated that ultraprocessed foods are causative of these diseases.
The experts cited in the article explained that foods become processed through freezing, grinding, fermentation and pasteurization. Many foods also undergo industrial processes; include additives, colors and preservatives; and contain high amounts of sodium, sugar and saturated fat and low amounts of fiber and protein. These characteristics may make them addictive to Americans.
In a 2019 study published in Cell Metabolism, researchers assigned participants to consume ultraprocessed and unprocessed foods with similar amounts of calories, sugar, fat, fiber and macronutrients. During a two-week period in which they consumed ultraprocessed foods, the participants increased their calorie intake by 500 calories per day and their weight by two pounds after a two-week period.
The experts emphasized the need for new policies regulating the sale and marketing of ultraprocessed foods. Americans were encouraged to limit the amount of ultraprocessed foods they consume. Nonetheless, there may be no practical advice for avoiding ultraprocessed foods since estimates have suggested that they may account for just less than 75% of the U.S. food supply. As a result, Americans should consider checking food labels to minimize their intake of foods high in added sugars and sodium and increase their consumption of unprocessed and minimally processed fruits and vegetables.
Read more: The Associated Press
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