0
0
The American Heart Association (AHA) has released its long-awaited scientific advisory statement addressing the consumption of ultraprocessed foods (UPFs), highlighting that while most UPFs are detrimental to heart health and overall well-being, a small subset may fit into a balanced diet. This announcement comes shortly before the expected release of the second “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) Commission report, which also focuses on ultraprocessed foods and their health impacts.
According to the AHA’s new guidelines published in the journal Circulation, the majority of ultraprocessed foods—typically loaded with unhealthy fats, added sugars, and salt—pose significant health risks including increased chances of heart attack, stroke, type 2 diabetes, obesity, sleep disorders, and depression. Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reveal that Americans over the age of one derive 55% of their daily calories from UPFs, a figure that rises to 62% among children aged 1 to 18.
Notably, the AHA distinguishes that not all UPFs are created equal. Certain categories such as some whole grain breads, low-sugar yogurts, tomato sauces, and nut or bean-based spreads may be considered healthier options if monitored carefully to maintain their nutritional quality. Christopher Gardner, vice chair of the AHA report’s writing group, cautions that although these healthier UPFs exist, they represent a small fraction compared to the vast majority of harmful ultraprocessed foods packed with cosmetic additives that promote overeating and various health issues.
The AHA categorizes ultraprocessed foods into three groups: least healthy, moderately healthy, and healthy. Healthy choices include fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables without additives, whole grains such as oats and brown rice, unsalted nuts, dried beans, plant oils, low-fat dairy products, lean unprocessed meats, and certain plant-based meat and dairy alternatives with low added sugar, salt, and fats. Moderately healthy options include white rice and pasta, full-fat dairy, canned fruits in light syrup, eggs replacements, and low sodium soups. The least healthy category comprises processed meats like chicken nuggets and hot dogs, butter, lard, sugar-sweetened beverages, and many fast food items and snacks.
This nuanced guidance has been welcomed by public health advocates like the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, which supports the acknowledgment that many plant-derived UPFs can reduce disease risk, especially when replacing animal products in the diet.
The report calls for stronger regulatory measures, urging the food industry to reduce the production of harmful UPFs and for policy makers to adopt front-of-package labeling and other strategies to help consumers make healthier choices. Scientists and former FDA officials are also advocating for re-evaluation of the safety of certain additives commonly found in these foods to better protect public health.
Disclaimer: This article summarizes information from the American Heart Association’s August 2025 scientific advisory statement and related expert commentary. Individuals should consult healthcare professionals for personalized dietary advice. The guidelines and recommendations presented may evolve as further research emerges.
