Ultra-processed foods linked to 47% higher risk of heart attack and stroke

Ultra-processed foods—items heavily altered from their natural state with added fats, sugars, starches, salts, and chemical additives—are now a dominant part of the American diet. These foods, which include sodas, packaged snacks, and processed meats, often have natural nutrients removed and contain ingredients unfamiliar to the human body. Currently, these products comprise nearly 60% of what adults eat and around 70% of children’s diets in the United States.

A Growing Concern: Ultra-Processed Foods and Heart Disease

The Link Between Diet and Cardiovascular Health

Previous research has indicated a connection between high consumption of ultra-processed foods and metabolic syndrome, a condition encompassing obesity, high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol, and insulin resistance. These foods have been linked to increased levels of C-reactive protein, a marker of inflammation associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks and strokes. A recent study sought to directly examine the relationship between ultra-processed food intake and cardiovascular disease risk.

Did You Know? Researchers analyzed data collected between 2021 and 2023 from the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).

New Research Reveals Significant Risk

Researchers at Florida Atlantic University’s Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine analyzed data from the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) and published their findings in The American Journal of Medicine. Their analysis of 4,787 U.S. Adults revealed that those with the highest intake of ultra-processed foods had a 47% higher risk of cardiovascular disease compared to those with the lowest intake.

“The findings from our study…show that those with the highest intake of UPFs suffer a statistically significant and clinically important 47% higher risk of cardiovascular disease,” stated Charles H. Hennekens, M.D., FACPM, FACC, senior author of the study.

Study Methodology

The research team examined data from adults aged 18 and older who kept detailed dietary records for at least one day and reported any history of heart attack or stroke. Participants’ total calorie intake from ultra-processed foods was calculated, and they were divided into four groups based on their level of consumption. The analysis accounted for factors like age, sex, race and ethnicity, smoking status, and income. The average age of participants was 55 years, and women comprised 55.9% of the study group.

Expert Insight: The researchers’ observation that addressing ultra-processed food consumption may mirror the decades-long struggle to raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco suggests a complex public health challenge involving both individual choices and systemic factors.

Looking Ahead: Parallels to Public Health Battles

The researchers suggest that increasing awareness of the health risks associated with ultra-processed foods may follow a similar trajectory to that of tobacco. Reducing reliance on these foods may be challenging due to the influence of large food companies and limited access to healthier options. Addressing this issue, according to Hennekens, requires creating environments where healthy choices are accessible and affordable for everyone.

Beyond Heart Disease: Potential Links to Other Illnesses

The study also noted rising rates of colorectal cancer, particularly among younger adults. Many risk factors for colorectal cancer overlap with those for cardiovascular disease, including dietary patterns. Researchers suggest that increased consumption of ultra-processed foods may contribute to both conditions, along with other gastrointestinal diseases.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered an ultra-processed food?

Ultra-processed foods are heavily altered industrial products containing added fats, sugars, starches, salts, and chemical additives like emulsifiers. Examples include sodas, packaged snacks, and processed meats.

How was cardiovascular disease defined in the study?

In this study, cardiovascular disease was defined as a self-reported history of heart attack or stroke.

What do the researchers recommend for patients and clinicians?

The researchers recommend that healthcare providers advise patients to reduce their intake of ultra-processed foods, alongside other proven lifestyle changes and appropriate medical therapies.

Given these findings, what changes, if any, might you consider making to your own diet?