New research links popular foods to increased risks for 12 major health conditions

Scientists studying foods known as UPFs have found links to a dozen serious health conditions.

Ultra-processed foods are becoming increasingly prevalent in many people's diets for a variety of reasons. This might be low cost, convenience, and simply liking the taste.

However, relying too much on them may lead to broader health problems, according to a new study published in the medical journal The Lancet.

The paper is one of a three-part series, and it also concluded that consumption of these foods is rising around the world.

This term UPFs is very broad, covering things from pre-packaged food in supermarkets to tinned soups, stews, chips, and sodas.

They are often touted for their convenience, simply throwing something in the microwave, as people don't have time to cook something from scratch after a long day.

But while their convenience is not in dispute, UPFs may carry a lot of health risks, according to the new study.

Carlos A. Monteiro, MD, is a professor of nutrition and public health in the School of Public Health at the University of São Paulo in Brazil, and is the first author on the study highlighting the risks of UPFs.

UPFs are on the rise, according to the study (Kinga Krzeminska/Getty stock photo)

In a press release, Prof Monteiro said: “The growing consumption of ultra-processed foods is reshaping diets worldwide, displacing fresh and minimally processed foods and meals.

"This change in what people eat is fuelled by powerful global corporations who generate huge profits by prioritising ultra-processed products, supported by extensive marketing and political lobbying to stop effective public health policies to support healthy eating.”

Professor Camila Corvalan of the University of Chile also warned that governments will need to take action to counter the widespread popularity and public health impact of UPFs.

They've been linked to a whole host of health problems (Dan Kitwood/Getty Images)

She said: “Addressing this challenge requires governments to step up and introduce bold, coordinated policy action - from including markers of UPFs in front-of-package labels to restricting marketing and implementing taxes on these products to fund greater access to affordable, nutritious foods.”

For now, though, people can try to cut down on their consumption of these foods to minimize the risk.

If you are worried about how your diet is affecting your health, you can consult a registered dietician or medical professional for advice.

The 12 health conditions with increased risk from UPFs:

• Abdominal Obesity
• All-cause Mortality
• Cardio­vascular Disease
• Chronic Kidney Disease
• Cerebrovascular Disease
• Coronary Heart Disease
• Crohn’s Disease
• Depression
• High Blood Pressure (hypertension)
• High Cholesterol (dyslipidemia)
• Overweight/Obesity
• Type 2 Diabetes