Big studies say that eating a lot of ultra‑processed foods can make the heart sick and may lead to early death.
Scientists have found strong links between these foods and obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney problems, and heart‑related deaths.
The findings were gathered by a group of European heart experts, including professors from Italy and researchers from health institutes.
What the Experts Say
Professor Luigina Guasti explains that ultra‑processed foods are made with many industrial ingredients and additives. They have taken the place of traditional meals in many places. Research shows they raise several heart‑risk factors such as weight gain, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Yet, doctors still do not talk much about these foods when giving diet advice.
She hopes the new statement will help doctors warn patients about the dangers of ultra‑processed foods and give clear tips on how to eat less of them.
Key Findings
- People who eat the most ultra‑processed foods have up to a 19% higher chance of heart disease, a 13% higher chance of atrial fibrillation, and up to a 65% higher chance of dying from cardiovascular problems compared with low‑eaters.
- These foods also worsen obesity, type‑2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and cause unhealthy fat to build up in the bloodstream.
- Consumption keeps climbing in Europe: about 61% of daily calories in the Netherlands and 54% in the UK come from ultra‑processed foods, while Spain, Portugal, and Italy are lower (25%, 22%, and 18% respectively).
- Most national diet guidelines still focus on nutrients and do not address how much food processing occurs.
Doctors Should Ask About Ultra‑Processed Foods
Doctors treating patients with heart problems—or those at risk—should specifically ask how many ultra‑processed foods they eat.
They should also advise cutting back on these foods, along with regular advice about exercise, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, and eating a balanced diet. Some products marketed as “healthier” can still be ultra‑processed.
Why Researchers Are Worried
Dr. Marialaura Bonaccio notes that ultra‑processed foods raise heart risk mainly by causing weight gain, diabetes, high blood pressure, and the buildup of bad fats. They are usually high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, and contain additives that may trigger inflammation, upset metabolism, change gut bacteria, and lead to overeating.
More long‑term studies are needed to see if reducing these foods improves heart health. Future research should also look at which additives or processing methods are the most harmful.
Overall, the evidence suggests that choosing whole or minimally processed foods is safer for the heart, even if a processed food looks nutritious on paper.