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In the late 1800s, the processing of brown rice into white rice in Japan led to a vitamin B deficiency disease called beriberi. This highlighted the importance of nutrients lost during food processing.
Research shows a link between ultra processed foods and various diseases like cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. Consuming these foods increases health risks, even after adjusting for factors like education and income.
A study compared the effects of ultra processed food and home-cooked meals with matched nutrients. Results revealed higher calorie consumption and weight gain with ultra processed diets, indicating a negative impact on health.
Chemicals and additives in ultra processed foods, such as emulsifiers and preservatives like nitrates, are a health concern. These compounds may contribute to diseases like cancer and disrupt gut bacteria, potentially leading to inflammation and other health issues.
The microscopic food matrix and texture changes due to processing impact nutrient absorption and blood sugar levels. Understanding these effects is crucial for addressing health risks associated with ultra processed foods.
Plastics and chemicals in food packaging, like bisphenol A, can leach into food and disrupt hormones. Higher consumption of ultra processed foods may increase exposure to these harmful chemicals, emphasizing the importance of food packaging safety.
Research indicates that reducing ultra processed food intake can lower exposure to harmful chemicals while maintaining a balanced diet. Balancing health concerns with practicality in dietary choices is essential for overall well-being.
We hear over and over that ultra-processed food is bad for us. But is there actually something funky going on here — or is it just junk food? We dig into what these foods are doing to our bodies. You’ll hear from Dr. Kevin Hall, Prof. Carlos Monteiro, Dr. Cathrina Edwards, and Dr. Sheela Sathyanarayana.
Find our transcript here: https://bit.ly/3xYhHHZ
This episode was produced by Rose Rimler with help from Michelle Dang, Meryl Horn, Ekedi Fausther-Keeys, and Rasha Aridi. Our executive producer is Wendy Zukerman. We’re edited by Blythe Terrell. Fact checking by Erica Akiko Howard. Mix and sound design by Bumi Hidaka. Music written by Bumi Hidaka, Peter Leonard, Emma Munger, Marcus Bagala, and Bobby Lord. Thanks to all the researchers we got in touch with for this episode, including Dr. Anthony Fardet, Dr. Bernard Srour, Prof. Jose Miguel Aguilera, Dr. Mathilde Touvier, Dr. Melissa Melough, Dr. Rachel Laudan, Prof. Niyati Parekh, and lots of others. Special thanks to Paul Adams.
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