A comprehensive new study published in The Lancet Regional Health – Americas has revealed that ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are linked to a substantially higher risk of coronary heart disease (CHD), cardiovascular disease (CVD), and stroke. This landmark research underscores the urgent need for dietary changes and policy interventions to address the rising health risks associated with UPFs.
The study, which draws on data from three major U.S. cohorts—the Nurses’ Health Study (NHS), Nurses’ Health Study II (NHSII), and Health Professionals Follow-Up Study (HPFS)—examined the impact of UPF intake on cardiovascular health over several decades. Researchers analyzed data from 207,957 participants to assess the relationship between UPF consumption and the incidence of major cardiovascular events.
Ultra-processed foods, which include products with added sugars, unhealthy fats, and various additives, constitute 57% of the average American adult’s energy intake. These foods are linked to inflammation, diabetes, and atherosclerosis—key contributors to cardiovascular disease. The study’s findings highlight that higher consumption of UPFs is associated with increased risks of both CHD and CVD, though not specifically stroke.
Dr. Julie Buring, the study’s lead investigator, noted, “Our research demonstrates a clear connection between high UPF intake and greater cardiovascular risk. With heart disease as the leading cause of death globally, these findings emphasize the critical need to re-evaluate dietary guidelines and promote healthier eating habits.”
The study revealed that participants with the highest UPF intake had a significantly elevated risk for cardiovascular events compared to those with lower intake. Specifically, the highest quintile of UPF consumers had increased risks of CVD and CHD, with particularly strong associations observed in the Nurses’ Health Study II cohort.
In response to these findings, Dr. Paul Ridker, director of the Center for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, advocated for policy changes and public health strategies that address UPF consumption. “We need to focus on both reducing UPF intake and improving the overall quality of our diets. Public health initiatives must target the reduction of UPF consumption to mitigate cardiovascular risk and improve overall health outcomes.”
The study also highlights the differential impact of various UPF categories. Processed meats and sugary beverages were identified as particularly harmful, while some categories like cold cereals and dairy-based desserts showed less adverse effects. This nuanced understanding of UPF impacts suggests the need for targeted dietary recommendations.
The research team calls for further studies in diverse populations to confirm these findings and to explore how different types of UPFs impact cardiovascular health across various demographic groups.
