Ultra-Processed food addiction: A research update

This review by LaFata et al. (2024) highlights recent advancements in understanding ultra-processed food (UPF) addiction, including estimates of prevalence rates, emerging health disparities, progress in uncovering biological and behavioral mechanisms, and the implications for weight management. Significant developments in this area include: (1) estimates indicating that UPF addiction affects 14% of adults and 15% of youth globally; (2) identification of health disparities, particularly among people of color and those experiencing food insecurity; (3) changes observed in the functioning of the brain-gut-microbiome axis; (4) initial evidence suggesting withdrawal symptoms related to UPFs; and (5) indications of poorer weight management outcomes for individuals with UPF addiction. The growing body of research on UPF addiction highlights ongoing scientific and public interest in this issue and its relevance to understanding and addressing overeating behaviors and obesity. A critical gap remains in the development of targeted interventions for ultra-processed food addiction, which could lead to better clinical outcomes for this underserved population. [NPID: Ultra-processed foods, food addiction, compulsive overeating, obesity treatment outcomes]

Year: 2024

Reference: LaFata, E. M., Allison, K. C., Audrain-McGovern, J., & Forman, E. M. (2024). Ultra-Processed food addiction: A research update. Current Obesity Reports, 13(2), 214–223. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13679-024-00569-w

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