Hi again, people!
A study published in Nutrients found an association between consumption of ultra-processed foods and glaucoma, particularly in men and older adults, with researchers saying higher blood glucose levels may be the reason. The research involved 19,225 adults followed for nearly 13 years and showed the most significant increased risk of glaucoma in men over age 55 who consumed sweet ultra-processed foods.
Another recent study published in the journal Cell Metabolism compared the effects of an ultra-processed diet to the effects of an unprocessed diet on calorie intake and weight gain. The researchers found that study subjects consumed about 500 more calories per day on the ultra-processed diet versus the unprocessed diet. The ultra-processed diet period was marked by an increased intake of carbohydrate and fat, but not protein. Participants gained on average two pounds during the ultra-processed diet phase, and lost two pounds during the unprocessed diet phase. The authors concluded that limiting ultra-processed foods may be an effective strategy for preventing and treating obesity.
WHAT ARE ULTRA-PROCESSED FOODS?
UPFs are foods that go through multiple processes (extrusion, molding, milling, etc.), contain many added ingredients and are highly manipulated. Ultra-processed foods are made mostly from substances extracted from foods, such as fats, starches, added sugars, and hydrogenated fats. They may also contain additives like artificial colors and flavors or stabilizers. Examples of these foods are frozen meals, ice cream, packaged soups, patties and chicken nuggets, hotdogs, soft drinks, hot dogs and cold cuts, fast food, packaged cookies, cakes, and salty snacks.
What is the alternative Good old natural, minimally processed foods that are high in protein, micronutrients, phytochemicals and anti-oxidants.
ENJOY IN MODERATION!
FURTHER READING:
https://www.cell.com/cell-metabolism/pdf/S1550-4131(19)30248-7.pdf
