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Annual Meeting of the Radiological Society of North America Highlights Impact on Health
A diet rich in ultra-processed foods is associated with higher levels of fat stored within thigh muscles, irrespective of calorie consumption or physical activity, according to research presented at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA). This increase in intramuscular fat may also heighten the risk of developing knee osteoarthritis.
Rise of Ultra-Processed Foods
Ultra-processed foods—products with ingredients that are industrially processed, chemically altered, or artificially flavored and colored—have become a staple in modern diets. Common examples include packaged snacks, frozen pizzas, soft drinks, and ready-to-eat meals. While convenient and long-lasting, these foods are often engineered to activate the brain’s reward system through a blend of sugar, fat, salt, and carbohydrates, making them highly appealing and difficult to resist.
The Study
Researchers analyzed data from 666 participants of the Osteoarthritis Initiative, a nationwide study supported by the National Institutes of Health. Participants, averaging 60 years of age with a body mass index (BMI) of 27, consumed diets where approximately 40% of their intake consisted of ultra-processed foods. MRI scans revealed that individuals who consumed more ultra-processed foods had significantly higher levels of fat within their thigh muscles, regardless of their overall caloric intake, BMI, or activity level.
Health Implications
“Fatty degeneration of muscles, seen as streaks of fat replacing muscle fibers, has been linked to the onset and progression of knee osteoarthritis,” explained Dr. Zehra Akkaya, lead author and researcher at the University of California, San Francisco. “This study highlights the role of ultra-processed foods in declining muscle quality, offering new insights into how diet impacts musculoskeletal health.”
Dr. Akkaya emphasized the clinical significance of these findings. Knee osteoarthritis, a condition heavily tied to obesity and lifestyle factors, is a major contributor to non-cancer healthcare costs globally. Targeting modifiable factors such as diet and exercise remains a cornerstone of disease management.
A Call for Dietary Awareness
The study underscores the importance of reducing reliance on ultra-processed foods and prioritizing natural, minimally processed ingredients. While convenience may drive the popularity of processed foods, understanding their impact on muscle and joint health could inspire healthier dietary choices.
“Understanding this relationship could open new avenues for prevention and treatment, particularly as osteoarthritis continues to grow as a global health concern,” said Dr. Akkaya.
The research was conducted in collaboration with a team of experts, including Dr. Thomas M. Link, Dr. Katharina Ziegeler, and others, who hope these findings encourage further exploration of diet’s role in maintaining musculoskeletal health.
