Share this @internewscast.com

Fears about ultra-processed foods (UPFs) should not stop people enjoying them in moderation, experts have said.

The term describes a broad category of foods made using industrial processes that could not be made in a domestic kitchen.

A report in The British Medical Journal found that consuming too much sugary cereal, ready meals and fizzy drinks may increase risk of 32 serious health problems.

People who ate the most UPFs could be up to 50 percent more likely to suffer from cardiovascular disease and 48-53 percent more likely to experience anxiety and mental health disorders, according to Australian academics.

However, one expert has warned that some of the study’s claims were “irresponsible” and based on low quality evidence.

Gunter Kuhnle, a professor in nutrition and food science at the University of Reading, told the Daily Express the definition of a UPF was “incredibly vague” and inconsistent.

He said: “Ultra-processed food is such a huge category, so it’s incredibly difficult. Some of them, like bread, are unlikely really to cause an adverse impact.

“If you make soup at home and you use a stock cube, does that make it ultra-processed or not? The fringes are really difficult.

“A lot of people confuse ultra-processed food with junk food and it’s often portrayed in that way. But it’s not linked to food composition.”

The quality of evidence suggesting a link between UPFs and health problems was weak, Prof Kuhnle said.

People who eat more UPFs also typically have less healthy lifestyles, are more likely to smoke, less likely to exercise and have lower incomes – all factors which are hard to account for in research.

Prof Kuhnle added: “Is it really eating processed food that makes you depressed or anxious? Or is it the other way around? It’s very difficult to take it apart.

“A better approach would promote eating more fresh food, trying to cook more from scratch and finding a food system that helps to do that.

“Think more about what you eat from a composition point of view – sugar, fat and salt – than worrying about processing.”

In a BMJ editorial linked to the study, Brazilian academics also called on the United Nations to develop a convention on UPFs.

Christopher Snowdon, head of lifestyle economics at the Institute of Economic Affairs, said: “Calling for the UN to create a global treaty to regulate ultra-processed food like tobacco is frankly deranged.

“Ultra-processed foods include sliced bread, baked beans and yoghurt. Even infant formula and vegan sausages are ultra-processed.

“We are being led by hypochondriacs and junk scientists towards some absurd beliefs and it’s time people got a grip.”

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like

Optometrists Recommend Popular Diet Change to Enhance Vision

Eye doctors have urged people to start consuming specific foods if they…

For Optimal Health Benefits, Drink Coffee at This Specific Time

Whether it’s the flavour, the ritual, or the energising boost, coffee is…

Experts Suggest Many Diagnosed with ADHD Could Actually Have a Different Common Disorder

A major new analysis has fueled concerns over the accuracy of tests…

“I Faced Death Seven Times and Didn’t See a Bright Light or Tunnel”

Shona Hirons experienced nothing when she nearly died (Image: Jam Press) A…

Affordable yet contentious supplement outperforms dementia, taken by millions

Apart from helping you improve muscle growth, your protein powder may also…

Single Health Risk May Increase Chance of Eye Disease Threefold in Later Life

People with diabetes who do not keep their blood sugar under control…

Cautionary Alert: Popular Supplement Linked to Potential Organ Damage and Nerve Issues

Britons taking a host of over-the-counter supplements are risking organ damage  and…

Eight Individuals Hospitalized Due to Dangerous Toxin Following Family Reunion Meal

Eight people were hospitalized in California after eating a homemade salad that…

Mouth Symptom May Signal Heart Disease

Many people dismiss a little blood during their dental routine as nothing…

Fit and Active 39-Year-Old Mom Battling Bowel Cancer Reveals the Symptom She Regrets Overlooking

When Krystal Maeyke began experiencing sharp stabbing pains in her stomach, she…

Doctor-Approved Supplement Helps Stressed Shoppers Achieve a Full Night’s Rest

A lot of people find it hard to switch off at night…