There is a big problem with ultra-processed foods

The study analyzed the eating habits of 115,000 American adults and found that those who regularly consumed UPFs showed a higher rate of mortality. UPFs typically include products like ready meals, ice creams, and ketchup-like sauces, which are low in nutritional value but high in artificial additives. Over the 34 years of the study, 48,193 deaths were recorded, and although no direct link was found between UPF consumption and deaths caused by cancer or heart disease, the overall mortality rate was still higher among consumers of UPFs.

The study also highlights that not all UPFs pose the same health risks, and critics caution that the association does not necessarily mean a direct cause of premature death. Nonetheless, the importance of a balanced diet remains a priority. For healthy eating, the NHS recommends including starchy carbohydrates from whole grains, at least five portions of fruits and vegetables per day, sources of protein, and increasing daily fiber intake to 30 grams.