More than half of the calories we eat in the U.S. come from ultra-processed foods (UPFs). These include items like fast food, sugary snacks, and packaged meals, which often have high levels of sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats. While research has linked UPFs to health problems like type 2 diabetes in adults, fewer studies have focused on their effects on young people.
A new study from the Keck School of Medicine at USC is one of the first to look at how UPF consumption affects glucose processing in young adults, which can indicate diabetes risk. Researchers followed 85 young adults over four years to see how their eating habits influenced their health.
They found that increased intake of UPFs led to a higher risk of prediabetes, a condition where blood sugar levels are elevated but not high enough to be classified as diabetes. Specifically, these young adults showed signs of insulin resistance, meaning their bodies struggled to use insulin effectively.
Dr. Vaia Lida Chatzi, who led the study, emphasized the importance of addressing these issues early. “Even small increases in ultra-processed food intake can harm glucose regulation. This points to diet as a crucial area for prevention strategies.”
Young adulthood is a time when we establish habits that can last a lifetime. Swapping out packaged foods for fresh options like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains could significantly lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later on.
The Study’s Findings
The participants, aged 17-22, were part of the Metabolic and Asthma Incidence Research (Meta-AIR) study. They detailed their food intake on specific days and underwent blood tests to measure how their bodies responded to sugar.
The results were telling. A 10% increase in UPF consumption was linked to a 64% higher risk of prediabetes and a 56% increased risk for glucose regulation issues. Those who consumed more UPFs had higher insulin levels later, indicating early signs of insulin resistance.
Dr. Yiping Li, the study’s first author, pointed out that this research highlights the potential dangers of UPFs among young adults. Limiting these foods may be a step toward preventing serious health problems.
The Bigger Picture
The health risks of ultra-processed foods aren’t new, but this study shines a light on young adults, a demographic often overlooked. According to the CDC, nearly 34.2 million people in the U.S. have diabetes, and 88 million adults have prediabetes. With rising rates of obesity and diabetes, understanding dietary impact is more critical than ever.
Limiting UPF intake is a simple change that could lead to better long-term health outcomes. Encouraging healthier eating habits now may prevent many young adults from facing serious health issues in the future.
For further insights, you can read more about the study here.
Source link
Food, Prediabetes, Ultra-processed food, Blood, Blood Sugar, Children, Diabetes, Diet, Glucose, High Blood Sugar, Insulin, Insulin Resistance, Medicine, Metabolism, Nutrition, Obesity, Public Health, Research, Type 2 Diabetes, Ultra-Processed Foods
