Podcast Summary
Ultra-processed foods health effects: Ultra-processed foods, which make up nearly 50% of calories consumed in Canada, are linked to 32 adverse health effects including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and early deaths. They are high in unhealthy calories, added sugar, sodium, and low in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Their attractive and hyper-palatable nature leads to increased calorie intake.
Ultra-processed foods, which are formulations of ingredients created through industrial techniques with numerous additives, are linked to 32 adverse health effects according to a new study. These foods, which include soft drinks, packaged snacks, frozen meals, and many others, make up nearly 50% of calories consumed in Canada today. The study, which reviewed 45 meta-analyses involving almost 10 million people, found direct links between high intakes of ultra-processed foods and early deaths, cancer, mental health issues, and poor cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, and metabolic health. The evidence was particularly strong for obesity, type 2 diabetes, and mobility limitations. Overall, diets high in ultra-processed foods may be harmful to most, if not all, body systems. These foods are harmful due to their high calorie, unhealthy fat, added sugar, and sodium content, as well as their low fiber, vitamin, and mineral content. They are engineered to be attractive, hyper-palatable, and easy to consume, leading to increased calorie intake.
Ultra-processed foods impact on health: Ultra-processed foods negatively impact health by altering gut microbiome, promoting inflammation, and forming harmful compounds. Making some foods at home can help reduce use of additives and preservatives.
Ultra-processed foods, which contain additives like emulsifiers and artificial sweeteners, can negatively impact our health by altering our gut microbiome, promoting inflammation, and leading to the formation of harmful compounds. These foods can also contain contaminants from plastic packaging. To minimize the negative effects of ultra-processed foods, consider making some of your favorite items at home using ingredients from your own pantry. This will help reduce the use of additives and preservatives. Some examples include making your own salad dressings, pasta sauce, and baked goods. Making a list of regularly consumed ultra-processed foods and finding ways to make them at home is a good starting point. However, it will take public health policies and actions to significantly change the food environment and make healthier options more accessible.