Everyday grocery items that have been ultra-processed are found to be linked to an increase of non-communicable diseases such as CVD risks factors of obesity and heart age.
Ultra-processed foods, which account for over 61% of grocery store purchases in the United States, are associated with a higher risk of non-communicable diseases.
According to the NOVA Food Classification System, which categorizes food 'according to the extent and purpose of the process they undergo', there are four levels of classification, from the least processed to the most processed and UPFs are the fourth classification of food processed products.
A study using the NOVA Food Classification System was conducted with 12,460 individuals with a mean average of 50 years old. These individuals were observed and a 24-hour recall was used to estimate the total intake of UPFs.
The study found that 54.5% of the mean usual percentage was from UPFs and led to an increase in heart age, "the age of a person's heart based on their risk factor profile for heart attack and stroke.'' PMC states.
UPFs allow consumers to cook efficiently at a less expensive price than single ingredients. By law per FDA, these food products have to add labels to give consumers insight into their dietary ingredients. Many of these food products consist of artificial sweeteners and excessive sugars.
The Nutrition Source of Harvard T.H. Chan states, "It is estimated that ultra-processed foods contribute about 90% of the total calories obtained from added sugars."
High amounts of sugar lead to unhealthy weight gain. In the U.S., Americans indulge in unhealthy eating habits and overeating. According to the CDC, "Obesity costs the U.S. healthcare system almost $173 billion a year."
Bread and frozen meals are among the most consumed UPFs in the U.S. Most UPFs are generic food items in stores.
Consumers have to take caution when eating processed foods, especially UPFs. The PMC suggests a diet of fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts, fish, and other poultry.
If UPFs are not consumed in moderation, it may lead to hypertension, obesity, increased total cholesterol, and other CVD risk factors.