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Ultra-processed food consumption and risk of multiple chronic diseases among 8,819,894 adults from 51 prospective cohorts: a dose-response meta-analysis
The rising prevalence of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) poses significant health concerns, particularly regarding the risk of chronic disease. This systematic review evaluated the relationship between UPF consumption and various chronic health outcomes in adults.
A search strategy identified prospective cohort studies conducted through April 2026 that focused on dietary assessments using food frequency questionnaires, 24-hour recalls, or dietary history methods.
The analysis included 51 studies with a total of 8,819,894 participants, revealing strong associations between UPF intake and several health conditions. The findings indicated an increased likelihood of cardiovascular events, cancer, obesity/overweight, metabolic syndrome/diabetes, depression/anxiety, digestive diseases, and increased all-cause mortality. Furthermore, dose-response analyses demonstrated that for each additional 100 g/day of UPFs consumed, there were elevated risks for cardiovascular events, cancer, all-cause mortality, and metabolic syndrome/diabetes.
In conclusion, the study emphasizes a notable association between UPF intake and various chronic diseases, as well as an increased mortality risk, albeit with low to moderate evidence strength. Thus, reducing UPF consumption may be a crucial strategy for preventing chronic disease. [NPID: Ultra-processed foods, depression, chronic disease, all-cause mortality]
Year: 2026
