New research has shown that a diet high in ultra-processed foods (UPF) significantly increases the risk of death from chronic respiratory diseases. The study, conducted by a team from the University of Adelaide and the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), led by Dr. Tifera Mikkonen, gathered data from over 96,000 participants living in the United States, from 1999 to 2018, and analyzed the impact of consuming highly processed foods on a variety of chronic respiratory diseases.
Mikkonen stated, "We found that participants whose diet consisted of more than 40% ultra-processed foods (UPF) had a 26% higher risk of dying from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and a 10% increased risk of death due to chronic respiratory diseases, including lung cancer and other chronic diseases such as bronchitis, emphysema, and asthma."
She added, "Participants who consumed the largest amounts of ultra-processed foods were typically younger, had higher body mass indexes, and were at increased risk for diabetes, emphysema, and high blood pressure, as well as lower overall diet quality." Examples of ultra-processed foods include potato chips, cookies, processed meats, fried chicken, soft drinks, ice cream, and others.
Mikkonen explained, "These foods are filled with preservatives and additives that enter the bloodstream and may contribute to oxidative stress and chronic inflammation, exacerbating respiratory diseases." This study is among the most comprehensive to date regarding the impact of ultra-processed foods on respiratory health.
The researchers do not expect to find any significant differences between the United States and Western countries, as the populations follow similar diets. Mikkonen continued, "Our research suggests that reducing the intake of ultra-processed foods could significantly improve respiratory health and reduce the risk of death from chronic respiratory diseases."
Further research is needed to explore the precise mechanisms that drive the effects of dietary factors on respiratory health in greater detail.
