Ultra-Processed Food Intake May Increase Dementia, Stroke Risk

Recent research has shown that high intake of ultra-processed foods may be associated with an increased risk of stroke. Liudmila Evsegneeva · Moment/Getty Healthy adults who consume high amounts of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) may be more likely to show signs of vascular brain injury, which has been linked to stroke risk and cognitive decline. UPFs account for more than 50% of daily energy intake in high-income countries such as the United States. People with the highest UPF intake had higher body fat levels and greater odds of vascular brain injury than those with the lowest intake. You can reduce UPF intake by making simple swaps toward whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and grains prepared at home. Healthy adults who eat high levels of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) may be more likely to show signs of damage to the brain that could increase the likelihood of stroke and future memory problems, according to a study published October 15 in JAMA Network Open. UPFs are often defined using the NOVA classification: These foods typically have 5 or more ingredients and include substances not typically found in culinary preparations. This category of foods includes packaged snack foo…

≈