Ultra-processed food intake carries increased risk of cardio-cerebrovascular diseases

People who consume high amounts of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) appear to be at heightened risk of cardio-cerebrovascular diseases (CCVDs), according to the results of a systematic review and meta-analysis.

For the study, researchers searched multiple online databases for cohort studies wherein the association between UPF consumption and the risk of CCVDs were examined. A total of 39 cohort studies that included 63,573,312 participants met the eligibility criteria.

Data were pooled using random-effects models. Results showed that compared with abstinence or lower amounts of consumption, higher consumption of UPFs was associated with an increased likelihood of CCVDs (risk ratio [RR], 1.08, 95 percent confidence interval [CI], 1.01–1.16; I2=89 percent; p<0.01).

Results of nonlinear dose-response meta-analyses were consistent, with high levels of intake of UPFs being associated with an elevated risk of developing CCVDs (p<0.001 for nonlinearity). Specifically, the risk of CCVDs increased by about 7 percent with UPF intake of up to 1 serving per day.

Subgroup analysis also showed a significant increase in the risk of total CVD and hypertension with increased UPF consumption.

Additional prospective studies controlling for confounding factors are warranted to validate the findings and establish the relationship between UPF intake and the development of CCVDs.