02.05.2025 11:50
A large-scale study conducted in the USA, the UK, and six other countries revealed that individuals who excessively consume frequently eaten products such as soft drinks, ice cream, breakfast cereals, processed meat products, and biscuits may have a higher risk of early death.
According to a comprehensive study published in the 'American Journal of Preventive Medicine', the high consumption of ultra-processed foods may increase the risk of early death. The research examines the relationship between the dietary habits of individuals in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, the UK, and the USA and mortality rates.
THEY LISTED HAZARDOUS PRODUCTS ONE BY ONE
According to a report by BBC Turkish, commonly consumed products such as soft drinks, ice cream, breakfast cereals, processed meat products, and biscuits are processed with coloring agents, sweeteners, and chemical additives to make them appealing in terms of appearance, taste, and texture. Such foods account for more than half of calorie intake, especially in countries like the USA and the UK.
14% OF EARLY DEATHS...
Researchers indicate that approximately 14% of early deaths in these countries may be linked to ultra-processed foods. In contrast, in countries like Colombia and Brazil, where the consumption of processed foods is lower, this rate remains around 4%.
"CAUTION SHOULD BE EXERCISED"
However, the modeling method used in the study has led to some debates. Retired professor and applied statistics expert Kevin McConway stated that the study is based on many mathematical assumptions and therefore the results should be approached with caution. McConway also emphasized that it is still unclear how ultra-processed foods affect health in specific ways, making it difficult to establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship.
Nevertheless, while the research draws attention to the potential long-term effects of food preferences on health, it raises the need for a review of public health policies, especially in countries where the consumption of highly processed products is prevalent.