A recent Science Advisory from the American Heart Association has shed light on the growing concern over ultraprocessed foods (UPFs) and their significant impact on health. The advisory, titled 'Ultraprocessed Foods and Their Association with Cardiometabolic Health: Evidence, Gaps and Opportunities,' emphasizes the poor nutritional quality of most UPFs, which are high in saturated fats, added sugars, and sodium (HFSS), contributing to adverse health outcomes such as heart disease, stroke, obesity, and Type 2 diabetes.
The advisory points out that while not all UPFs are unhealthy, the majority, especially those prevalent in the U.S. diet, pose serious health risks. It highlights the need for more research to understand the specific effects of UPFs on the body and calls for updated dietary guidelines to discourage the consumption of nutrient-poor UPFs. The document also stresses the importance of evidence-based policies to evaluate and regulate food additives more effectively.
According to the advisory, UPFs account for a significant portion of the American diet, with 55% of calories consumed by individuals aged 1 and older coming from UPFs. This percentage is even higher among youth, reaching nearly 62%. The advisory also notes a disparity in UPF consumption based on income levels, with lower-income families consuming a higher percentage of UPFs daily.
The American Heart Association recommends reducing the intake of UPFs high in HFSS and replacing them with healthier options such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins. The advisory also calls for multi-level strategies, including policy changes and increased research funding, to address the health risks associated with UPFs.
For more information on the health impacts of UPFs and the American Heart Association's recommendations, visit https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/index.htm.
