New Study Finds Ultraprocessed Foods Put Young Children at Risk for Future Health Issues

A concerning new study published in JAMA Network Open suggests that the ultraprocessed foods young children consume may significantly impact their cardiometabolic health later in life, CNN reported yesterday.

The study analyzed data from over 1,400 children aged 3-6 across seven cities in Spain. Researchers divided the children into three groups based on their ultraprocessed food intake. The findings showed that children who consumed the most ultraprocessed foods were more likely to have higher body mass index, systolic blood pressure, and waist-to-height ratios – all risk factors for issues like heart attack, stroke, and diabetes.

“This particular topic, ultraprocessed food consumption and risk, is a very important one in kids,” said Dr. Stuart Berger, a pediatric cardiologist. “What we eat early in life sets the stage for what happens in the future.”

The problem, experts say, is that ultraprocessed foods are often more accessible and affordable, especially in areas with limited fresh food options. These foods are also highly convenient and addictive due to added sugars, salts, and artificial ingredients.

According to dietary experts, shifting children’s diets away from ultraprocessed foods and towards healthier, whole food options is crucial, though not always easy. They say encouraging physical activity and establishing healthy eating habits from a young age can help mitigate the long-term cardiometabolic risks