Mixed
Increased consumption of ultra-processed foods is a major contributor to the global pandemics of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and related non-communicable diseases.
Prioritize fresh or minimally processed foods (vegetables, fruits, grains, meats, dairy) and actively avoid ultra-processed foods (packaged snacks, sugary drinks, reconstituted meats, ready meals). Do not rely on 'reformulated' versions of these products as healthy alternatives; the processing level itself is the primary risk factor for obesity and metabolic disease.
Taken together, the totality of evidence summarised here shows beyond reasonable doubt that increased consumption of ultra-processed foods is a major contributor to the pandemic of obesity, type 2 diabetes and related diseases.
Why this rating
The authors cite meta-analyses, RCTs, and longitudinal ecological studies, stating the evidence shows the link 'beyond reasonable doubt'.
Source
The need to reshape global food processing: a call to the United Nations Food Systems Summit
Carlos Augusto Monteiro et al. · BMJ Global Health · 2021
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