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A recent study published in The Lancet Regional Health-Europe reveals that consuming ultra-processed foods (UPFs) such as savoury snacks, ready meals, and sugary or artificially sweetened beverages may significantly increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The research indicates that for every 10% increase in the intake of UPFs, the risk of type 2 diabetes rises by 17%.
The study, conducted by researchers from University College London (UCL), the University of Cambridge, and Imperial College London, highlights the growing health risks associated with UPFs, which are typically low in nutrients and high in additives, preservatives, and sugars.
Key Findings of the Study
The research followed 311,892 individuals across eight European countries over an average period of 10.9 years. Over the course of the study, 14,236 participants developed type 2 diabetes. Among the top 25% of UPF consumers, UPFs accounted for 23.5% of their total diet. Notably, sweetened beverages made up nearly 40% of their UPF intake, representing 9% of their overall diet.
In contrast, the study showed that reducing UPF consumption and replacing it with less-processed or minimally processed foods could significantly lower diabetes risk. Substituting 10% of UPFs with minimally processed foods like eggs, milk, and fruit, or processed culinary ingredients such as salt, butter, and oil, was associated with a 14% reduction in diabetes risk. Similarly, replacing UPFs with processed foods like tinned fish, cheese, and salted nuts resulted in an 18% risk reduction.
Impact on Public Health
The findings of this study contribute to a growing body of evidence linking UPF consumption with chronic health conditions, including obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and certain cancers. Researchers stress the importance of dietary choices in preventing type 2 diabetes and managing other health risks. “Substituting ultra-processed foods with healthier, minimally processed options could offer a practical and effective strategy to reduce diabetes risk,” the researchers noted.
Given the increasing global consumption of ultra-processed foods, this study underscores the urgency of raising awareness about their long-term health impacts. Reducing reliance on UPFs in favor of more natural and less-processed alternatives could play a critical role in tackling the rising rates of type 2 diabetes and other diet-related conditions.
