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Effect of ultra-processed food consumption on male reproductive and metabolic health
The consumption of ultra-processed food has been linked to increased caloric intake and adverse health outcomes. This study conducted a nutrition trial (NCT05368194) utilizing a controlled 2 × 2 crossover design to examine the effects of ultra-processed food on reproductive and metabolic fitness, as well as the potential exacerbation effects of excess caloric intake.
Our findings indicate that transitioning from an unprocessed to an ultra-processed diet resulted in significant increases in body weight and a detrimental LDL:HDL cholesterol ratio, independent of caloric load. Hormonal analysis revealed decreased levels of growth/differentiation factor 15 and follicle-stimulating hormone, both of which are critical for energy metabolism and spermatogenesis. Additionally, there was a noted trend toward impaired sperm quality, characterized by reduced total motility.
Furthermore, differential accumulation of pollutants was observed between the diets, with decreased plasma lithium levels and a trend indicating increased serum concentrations of the phthalate mono(4-methyl-7-carboxyheptyl)phthalate (cxMINP) following the ultra-processed diet. Importantly, alterations in caloric load alone produced distinct effects on the outcomes measured.
This study provides robust evidence that the consumption of ultra-processed food adversely affects both cardiometabolic and reproductive health outcomes, irrespective of caloric intake levels. [NPID: ultra-processed food, caloric intake, reproductive health, metabolic health, pollutants]
Year: 2025
