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Young Eaters Hooked on Processed Foods?
23 Nov
Summary
- Young adults aged 18-21 overate after a high ultra-processed diet.
- Eating when not hungry linked to weight gain and obesity risk.
- Age, not BMI or sex, predicted increased eating after UPF diet.
New research indicates that individuals aged 18 to 21 may be particularly vulnerable to the overeating effects of ultra-processed foods (UPFs). In a controlled trial, young adults who consumed a diet high in UPFs for two weeks ate significantly more, even when not feeling hungry, compared to when on a diet free of these processed items.
This pattern of eating beyond satiety was more pronounced in the younger participants of the study, aged 18-21, suggesting that age is a key determinant of susceptibility. The researchers highlighted that this behavior, if consistent, could lead to substantial excess calorie consumption weekly, thereby increasing the risk of weight gain and obesity.
While the study's controlled environment and short duration limit definitive conclusions about long-term habits, experts acknowledge the findings align with developmental traits of adolescents. Further research in real-world settings and with younger age groups is recommended to fully understand the impact of UPFs on appetite regulation and the brain's reward systems.
