Nutrition: Study links ultra-processed foods to higher cancer risk
By Marc Lallanilla
Published Nov. 24, 2023, 11:34 a.m. ET
Eating highly processed foods like chips, candy, and fast food has become a common American way of life. However, a recent study has found that this diet may be linked to a higher risk of cancer.
According to the study, ultra-processed foods make up an estimated 73% of the US food supply, and the average American adult gets more than 60% of their daily calories from these processed foods.
The study, published in the European Journal of Nutrition, analyzed the diets of over 450,000 adults in 11 European countries and found that those who consumed 10% more ultra-processed foods had a 23% higher risk of head and neck cancer. Additionally, a junk food diet was also linked to a 24% higher risk of cancer of the esophagus.
Interestingly, the increased risk of cancer was not solely attributed to the link between junk food and weight gain or obesity. Only 5% of the 23% higher risk for head and neck cancer was explained by a larger waist-to-hip ratio.
This points to other factors that may increase the risk of cancer from ultra-processed foods, such as additives like emulsifiers and artificial sweeteners, as well as contaminants like PFAS “forever chemicals” from food packaging and manufacturing.
The study’s findings support the recommendation to consume a healthy diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, fruit, and beans to reduce the risk of cancer. As the link between ultra-processed foods and cancer risk grows, it may be time for Americans to reconsider their dietary habits and opt for more whole and natural foods.