Not all UPFs are equal

A new study found that not all ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are equal when it comes to their impact on cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. While processed meats and sugary or artificially sweetened drinks were linked to a higher risk of CVD, bread, breakfast cereals, and savory snacks were linked to a lower risk. The study suggests that reducing salt, saturated fats, added sugars, and cosmetic additives in wholegrain bread, cereals, and savory snacks may enhance their nutritional value further.

The authors of the study recommend discouraging the consumption of soft drinks and processed meats due to their consistent adverse association with CVD, coronary heart disease, and stroke. This highlights the importance of making informed choices about the types of ultra-processed foods consumed in order to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.