Introduction: The global rise in ultra-processed food (UPF) consumption, driven by factors like convenience, affordability, and extensive marketing, has raised significant public health concerns. These foods are characterized by high levels of calories, unhealthy fats, simple sugars, and sodium, while being low in essential nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals. This review systematically analyzes the scientific evidence linking UPF intake to both physical and mental health adversities through underlying physiological and psychological mechanisms.
Methods: A systematic review methodology was employed to identify and synthesize relevant scientific literature. The analysis included epidemiological studies, clinical trials, and meta-analyses examining the short-term and long-term effects of UPF consumption on physical and mental health parameters.
Results: The evidence consistently indicates that high UPF consumption is associated with numerous adverse outcomes.
· Physical Health: UPFs significantly increase the risk of non-communicable diseases, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, fatty liver disease, and digestive issues. These effects are mediated through mechanisms such as promoting systemic inflammation, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and gut microbiome dysbiosis.
· Mental Health: Frequent UPF intake is linked to a higher risk of depression, anxiety, irritability, and cognitive decline. Key mechanisms include the disruption of neurotransmitter balance (e.g., serotonin and dopamine), induction of neuroinflammation, blood glucose fluctuations, and deficiencies in brain-protective nutrients (e.g., omega-3 fatty acids). Both short-term effects (mood swings, fatigue, reduced attention) and long-term consequences (increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases, structural brain changes, and addictive eating behaviors) were identified.
Conclusion: Ultra-processed food consumption detrimentally impacts health through a multitude of interconnected physiological and psychological pathways. Reducing reliance on UPFs and promoting whole, nutrient-dense diets are crucial public health strategies for preventing disease and improving overall well-being. A multifaceted approach involving public awareness, structural changes in the food industry, and policy interventions is urgently needed to mitigate these adverse effects.
Keywords: Ultra-processed foods, Neuroinflammation, Mental health, Physical health