NUTRITION
By Befitbu Nutritional Desk May 14, 2024
Ultra-processed foods are factory-made products with refined ingredients, additives, and preservatives, lacking whole foods and often high in calories, sugar, unhealthy fats, and sodium.
Linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, metabolic syndrome, and certain cancers, ultra-processed foods pose significant health risks.
These foods offer little fiber, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to poor diet quality and potentially displacing nutrient-rich whole foods.
Packed with artificial flavors, colors, sweeteners, and preservatives, ultra-processed foods may promote inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.
Engineered for addictiveness, they blend sugar, fat, and salt to create irresistible tastes, leading to overeating, weight gain, and obesity.
Marketed for convenience and long shelf life, ultra-processed foods sacrifice nutritional value for ease of consumption.
Many contain hidden unhealthy ingredients, necessitating careful label reading to make informed choices.
Their widespread availability fuels the obesity epidemic and chronic diseases, increasing healthcare costs globally.
Prioritize whole, minimally processed foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats to support better health outcomes, reducing reliance on ultra-processed options.