ultra-processed foods
Coverage of ultra-processed foods in the Nexus archive.
- A nutrition scientist shares 1 evidence-backed breakfast swap you can make for a lower cancer risk
Research suggests that limiting ultra-processed foods, such as refined carbs, significantly reduces the risk of obesity-related cancers, including colorectal cancer. The article highlights a specific swap where replacing ultra-processed bread with whole-grain cereal, like oatmeal, was found to reduce colon cancer risk. Nutrition researcher Kenny Mendoza advises paying attention not only to nutrients but also to how heavily processed foods are before eating them.
- Most toddler snacks in grocery aisles are ultra-processed, study finds
A study by the University of Texas found that 81% of toddler snacks in grocery aisles are ultra-processed, with nearly half exceeding WHO guidelines for sugar, sodium, fat, or calories. Nutrition experts warn these foods may alter toddlers' taste preferences and displace nutrient-rich options like fruits and vegetables.
- 4 in 5 toddler foods at grocery stores are ultra-processed: Study
A study found that 80% of toddler foods in grocery stores are ultra-processed, with products most commonly exceeding recommended levels for sugar, sodium, fat, or calories.
- Byron Donalds wants to ax ultra-processed foods in school
Byron Donalds, a gubernatorial candidate, is advocating for removing ultra-processed foods, artificial dyes, and additives from Florida school meals, echoing a rejected legislative proposal. Florida lawmakers previously declined a similar bill due to industry opposition and logistical concerns, but Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson supports addressing the issue.
- 4 in 5 toddler foods at grocery stores are ultra-processed: Study
A study found that 80% of toddler foods available at grocery stores are ultra-processed, with products frequently exceeding recommended limits for sugar, sodium, fat, or calories.
- How ultra-processed foods may damage your long-term brain health
Studies have linked ultra-processed foods to depression, anxiety, and dementia. Columnist Helen Thomson examines the strength of evidence connecting these foods to long-term brain health effects.
- Senate advances MAHA-friendly bill for food warning labels and junk food ad bans
The Senate advanced a bill that would ban junk food advertisements targeting children and require the Food and Drug Administration to place warning labels on ultra-processed foods high in sugar, salt, and saturated fat. The bill, part of the Make America Healthy Again movement, was proposed by Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.).
- InvestigateTV+: The benefits of urban food forests
The article highlights urban food forests in Hyattsville, Maryland, which convert vacant lots into public resources for food security and climate benefits. It also investigates concerns over false-positive drug tests in a Georgia custody case and discusses a study linking ultra-processed foods to chronic diseases.
- InvestigateTV+: The benefits of urban food forests
InvestigateTV+ reports on urban food forests in Hyattsville, Maryland, which convert vacant lots into public food sources with labeled crops and QR codes. The article also covers a Georgia family's false-positive drug test claims, a study linking ultra-processed foods to chronic diseases, and a senior laughter program in Omaha.
- Improved food access could lead to healthier eating, here’s how
A study links ultra-processed foods to chronic diseases and emphasizes the need for policy changes and local food systems. Omaha nonprofit No More Empty Pots addresses food access disparities by teaching gardening and cooking skills and distributing locally produced food through partnerships and community programs.
- Improved food access could lead to healthier eating, here’s how
A lack of access to fresh food contributes to poor diets and diet-related diseases, according to the USDA. A new study links ultra-processed foods to chronic diseases and advocates for policy changes and local food systems. Omaha nonprofit No More Empty Pots addresses food access by teaching gardening, partnering with local producers, and distributing fresh food.
- Improved food access could lead to healthier eating, here’s how
A lack of access to fresh food contributes to poor diets and health issues, according to the USDA. A study links ultra-processed foods to chronic diseases, urging policy changes and support for local food systems. Omaha nonprofit No More Empty Pots addresses food access by teaching gardening, cooking, and partnering with local producers to distribute fresh food.
- Does the War on ‘Ultra-Processed Foods’ Make Any Sense?
A study in the American Journal of Public Health reveals that over two-thirds of Americans view ultra-processed foods (UPFs) as addictive, with many linking them to health issues like diabetes, obesity, and cancer. Restrictions on UPFs have been introduced in both blue and red states, while Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and the World Health Organization have highlighted their risks. The article questions the evolving definition of UPFs and the shift in public health focus from nutrient content to processing methods.
- Big tobacco hooked us on ultra-processed foods. It might teach us how to cut back
Research in the American Journal of Public Health links the strategies of the tobacco industry with those used to promote ultra-processed foods, focusing on production, marketing, and consumer dependency. The article suggests Big Tobacco may now help address the overconsumption of these foods.
- Drinking alcohol may influence cravings for certain foods in a surprising way, study suggests
A study from the University of Sydney suggests that alcohol consumption may increase cravings for savory foods by influencing hormone levels, particularly FGF21, which shifts preferences toward umami flavors and away from sweet. This effect, combined with diets high in ultra-processed savory foods, could lead to overeating and contribute to the obesity epidemic.
- Young colon cancer linked to specific fats in ultra-processed foods
Research links young colon cancer to ultra-processed foods containing specific fats and oils. Studies presented at a major cancer conference suggest young-onset colorectal cancer is biologically distinct from traditional cases, with inflammation and gut microbiome changes as potential drivers.
- US tobacco firms applied tobacco strategies to globalize ultra-processed foods
US tobacco firms utilized strategies originally developed for the tobacco industry to expand their influence and market ultra-processed foods globally. The article highlights how these tactics were adapted to promote such foods internationally.
- Big tobacco uses cigarette playbook to help sell ultra-processed foods, journal reveals
The American Journal of Public Health reveals that big tobacco companies used cigarette marketing strategies to promote ultra-processed foods (UPFs) like Lunchables, which target children. The article highlights parallels between UPF marketing and cigarettes, including health risks such as cardiovascular diseases, certain cancers, and cognitive decline.
- Top ultra-processed food researchers call for sweeping policy change: ‘The system is rigged’
Top ultra-processed food researchers advocate for policy changes, citing bipartisan public concern over health risks like obesity and diabetes. A survey shows majority support for government interventions such as testing additives for safety, banning artificial dyes, and reducing sugar and salt in foods.
- Paleo diet leader bans 'caveman' label, says healthy eating plan widely misunderstood
Trevor Connor, CEO of The Paleo Diet, argues that the paleo diet is often misunderstood and that many people are already following a paleo-style approach by avoiding ultra-processed foods. He rejects the 'caveman' label, emphasizing the diet's focus on whole foods like vegetables, fruits, and meats, and criticizes the Western diet as unhealthy.
- Shocking photos reveal what ultra-processed foods are really doing to your insides
The article highlights alarming visuals demonstrating the detrimental effects of ultra-processed foods on internal organs, emphasizing their health risks. The photos aim to raise awareness about the consequences of consuming highly processed diets.
- Shocking photos reveal what ultra-processed foods are really doing to your insides
The article presents shocking photos illustrating the harmful effects of ultra-processed foods on internal organs. It highlights how these foods can damage the digestive system and overall health.