Nutrition & Diet

Ultra-Processed Foods Raise Heart Disease Risk by Up to 65%, Major European Report Finds

A major new report published in the European Heart Journal confirms that eating large amounts of ultra-processed foods significantly raises the risk of heart disease and early death. Combining findings from all available research on the topic, the European Society of Cardiology found that heavy UPF consumers face up to a 19% greater risk of heart disease, a 13% higher risk of atrial fibrillation, and a striking 65% higher risk of dying from cardiovascular disease. UPFs — industrially manufactured foods loaded with additives, sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats — also worsen obesity, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure. The authors are urging doctors to routinely ask patients about UPF intake and to push for clearer food labeling and updated dietary guidelines that go beyond nutrients to address food processing levels.