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Ultraprocessed Foods: The Silent Health Crisis
16 Feb
Summary
- Ultraprocessed foods contribute to chronic diseases like diabetes and heart attack.
- These foods can trigger overeating by targeting brain reward circuits.
- Shopping the supermarket perimeter and cooking at home are healthy alternatives.
Ultraprocessed foods, characterized by ingredients like corn syrup and maltodextrin, are a significant contributor to a rise in chronic diseases. Former FDA Commissioner David Kessler stated that these items have altered metabolism, leading to conditions including Type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and heart failure. These foods are designed to be addictive, targeting the brain's reward circuits to encourage overconsumption and suppress feelings of fullness.
Food author Michael Pollan supports this view, noting that 70% of Americans are overweight or obese, suggesting a systemic issue with the modern diet. Research indicates individuals consuming ultraprocessed diets consume approximately 500 more calories daily compared to those on whole-food diets. The lack of fiber in many processed items further exacerbates overeating.
Pollan advises shifting grocery shopping to the perimeter of the supermarket, where fresh produce and dairy are located, and reducing consumption of items from the inner aisles. He also advocates for increased home cooking, even starting with one meal per week eaten at a table. Addressing concerns about affordability, Pollan suggests reforming agricultural subsidies to support healthier food options and implementing a national food policy that prioritizes public health and environmental sustainability.
