A recent study published in the journal EClinicalMedicine has found that eating ultra-processed foods, such as sliced bread and ready meals, could increase a person’s risk of developing cancer. The research, which looked at the diets of 200,000 middle-aged adults over 10 years, revealed that higher consumption of these foods was associated with an increased risk of developing ovarian and brain cancers.
The study found that for every 10% increase in ultra-processed food intake, there was a corresponding increase in cancer incidence. The researchers also discovered that these foods were linked to a higher risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
Ultra-processed foods are often cheap, convenient, and heavily marketed, making them a concern for public health. According to the study’s authors, the UK food environment needs urgent reform to protect consumers from these unhealthy foods.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has previously recommended restricting ultra-processed foods as part of a healthy sustainable diet. However, there are currently no similar measures in place in the UK. The researchers argue that clear front-of-pack warning labels and sugar taxes should be extended to cover ultra-processed products.
The study’s findings have important implications for future health outcomes, particularly in vulnerable populations such as lower-income households. To address this issue, the authors suggest subsidising minimally processed and freshly prepared meals to ensure everyone has access to healthy options.
Source: https://www.getsurrey.co.uk/news/health/doctors-say-cutting-one-type-31506848