A new report from the European Heart Journal finds a serious link between ultra-processed food (UPF) and heart health issues. A group of cardiology experts from Europe analyzed numerous studies and found that high consumption of UPF can lead to increased risks of cardiovascular diseases and even death.
The report stresses that diets heavy in UPF can contribute to obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and other severe health problems. UPFs often contain unhealthy ingredients and additives that disrupt healthy eating patterns. Despite this growing body of evidence, many doctors might not yet discuss UPFs with their patients.
“We hope this statement will help doctors see ultra-processed foods as a real risk factor,” said Professor Luigina Guasti from the University of Insubria, Italy. “It’s crucial for guiding patients toward healthier eating habits.”
The findings are staggering:
- People eating the most UPFs face a 19% higher chance of developing heart disease, along with a 65% increase in the risk of cardiovascular death.
- UPF intake is rising, with countries like the Netherlands and UK averaging about 60% of their calories from these foods, while Spain and Portugal are slightly lower.
- Most dietary guidelines focus on nutrients but ignore the processing of foods, which can be misleading for consumers.
Experts call for improved public awareness of UPFs through better labeling and education. They also urge healthcare professionals to ask patients about their UPF consumption, especially if they have heart-related issues. This comprehensive approach could help patients make informed decisions about their diets.
Dr. Marialaura Bonaccio highlights how UPFs affect our health: “These foods typically have high levels of sugar and unhealthy fats, leading to obesity and other issues. We need to know if reducing UPF consumption can genuinely improve cardiovascular health over time.”
Recent statistics show that 57% of adults in Europe consume UPF on a regular basis, pointing to the urgent need for dietary change. A decade of research emphasizes the risks involved. Yet, most studies to date have been observational, requiring more definitive long-term trials.
To transition to healthier eating habits, it’s essential not just to focus on nutrients like vitamins and minerals but on food quality overall. Even foods that seem healthy can be harmful if heavily processed. By staying aware of UPFs, both patients and doctors can work together to improve health outcomes without extra burden on healthcare systems.
For more information on this topic, visit the European Society of Cardiology.
Journal reference: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehag226.
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Heart, Heart Disease, Blood, Blood Pressure, Cardiology, Cardiovascular Disease, Chronic, Chronic Kidney Disease, Diabetes, Food, High Blood Pressure, Kidney, Kidney Disease, Obesity, Research
