Junk food is everywhere—sodas, chips, packaged snacks, and processed meats. For years, these foods have been linked to serious health issues like diabetes and hypertension. Recently, research from Florida Atlantic University has revealed an even more alarming connection: ultra-processed foods may raise the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
In their study, researchers discovered that people who eat more junk food have a 47% higher risk of these cardiovascular events compared to those who consume minimal amounts. This finding is a wake-up call, making it clear that our love for processed foods poses a public health threat similar to past campaigns against tobacco use.
U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has criticized the American diet as part of his initiative, Make America Healthy Again. He argues that excessive consumption of junk food is a national concern. The study published in the American Journal of Medicine emphasizes the need for larger observational studies but advises that healthcare providers should encourage patients to cut down on junk food while adopting healthier habits.
Charles H. Hennekens, a professor at FAU, highlighted the importance of these results for future research and healthcare policies. Currently, about 70% of U.S. adults are overweight or obese, and nearly a third of teenagers have prediabetes, according to the CDC. Alarmingly, a 2016 study revealed that junk food made up about 60% of Americans’ diets.
In January, new dietary guidelines from the Departments of Health and Human Services and Agriculture labeled the country’s diet a “national health emergency.” They urged Americans to focus on real foods—like fruits, vegetables, meats, and whole grains—rather than processed options.
This message echoed during Super Bowl 60, where an ad featured former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson promoting fresh food, emphasizing that “Processed food kills” and encouraging viewers to “Eat real food.” This campaign, backed by the MAHA Center, aims to shift public perception and encourage healthier choices.
The FAU study analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2021-2023. Researchers evaluated detailed dietary records from nearly 4,800 adults over two days to quantify their intake of ultra-processed foods. These foods are typically industrially modified and packed with unhealthy ingredients like added sugars, fats, and preservatives.
Hennekens pointed out that tackling the issue of ultra-processed foods requires more than just individual decisions. “We need to create environments where choosing healthy options is easy,” he said. Public health initiatives and clinical guidance are essential to making nutritious foods accessible and affordable for all.
As awareness grows, it’s evident that changing our relationship with food is vital for better health outcomes. Understanding the role of diet in our lives can empower individuals to make informed choices and foster a healthier future for everyone.
