Newsletter #26: Ultra Processed Foods: What they are and Why they matter.
- Admin
- Dec 9, 2025
- 2 min read
Dec 2025
Ultra-Processed Foods: What They Are and Why They Matter
A lot has been written lately about the hazards of ultra-processed foods. However, many do not have a clear picture of what they are and how to identify them. With that in mind, I have written a short primer on the subject. Keep in mind that a recent study has now shown that ultra-processed foods will damage EVERY ORGAN IN YOUR BODY!
Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) have become a dominant part of modern diets. Defined by the NOVA classification system, UPFs are industrial formulations made largely or entirely from substances extracted from foods, chemically modified ingredients, and additives designed to create hyper-palatable, shelf-stable products. Growing evidence links high UPF intake to multiple adverse health outcomes across cardiac, metabolic, neoplastic, and neurologic systems.
Potential Health Consequences of Ultra-Processed Foods
1. Cardiovascular disease (CVD)
High consumption of UPFs is associated with higher rates of hypertension, heart attack and stroke. Proposed reasons include excessive sodium intake, poor cholesterol profiles, pro-inflammatory additives, and disruption of gut bacteria.
2. Metabolic dysfunction (obesity, diabetes)
UPFs often contain rapidly absorbable carbohydrates, emulsifiers, and flavor enhancers that promote overeating and impair glucose regulation. They are strongly linked to obesity, insulin resistance, and Type 2 diabetes.
3. Neoplastic (cancer) risk
Higher UPF intake has been associated with increased overall cancer risk, particularly breast and colorectal cancer. Theories include exposure to processing contaminants (e.g., acrylamide), chronic inflammation, and endocrine-disrupting packaging chemicals.
4. Central nervous system (CNS) effects
UPFs have now been linked to anxiety, depression, impaired cognition, and neuroinflammation. Diets high in additives (emulsifiers, artificial sweeteners) may alter the gut-brain axis.
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