Ultra-Processed Foods Linked to Heart Disease: Experts Urge Doctors to Warn Patients

Ultra-Processed Foods Pose Serious Health Risks, Experts Warn

European scientists are calling for greater awareness of the health dangers posed by ultra-processed foods, particularly their link to heart disease. In a clinical consensus statement published in the European Heart Journal on May 6, researchers from the European Society of Cardiology’s Council for Cardiology Practice and the European Association of Preventive Cardiology emphasized the need for medical professionals to address this issue with patients.

Experts argue that doctors should advise patients on how to identify ultra-processed foods and reduce their consumption. They highlight that many foods marketed as "healthier" options are often ultra-processed, a point of particular concern for individuals at risk of heart disease.

"[Ultra-processed foods], made from industrial ingredients and additives, have largely replaced traditional diets. Research suggests these foods are linked to several risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure, and to the risk of developing and dying from heart disease. However, this evidence has not yet made its way into the advice we give to patients on healthy eating."

What Are Ultra-Processed Foods?

Ultra-processed foods are products that have been significantly altered from their original state and contain additives such as sugar, salt, and substances not typically used in home cooking. These ingredients enhance flavor and texture but are also associated with increased disease risks.

Diseases Linked to Ultra-Processed Foods

A 2023 research review identified strong associations between ultra-processed foods and the following health conditions:

• Hypertension
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Dyslipidemia (abnormal cholesterol levels)

Additional research has linked ultra-processed foods to:

• Over 120,000 preventable deaths annually in the United States (2025 study)
• Worse muscle health and weakened bones
• Fertility issues in females
• Increased risk of cancer mortality
• Higher risk of cognitive decline

Heart Disease Risks Highlighted by Research

According to the European scientists, adults with high consumption of ultra-processed foods face a 19% higher risk of coronary artery disease and a 13% higher risk of atrial fibrillation. They also noted that most dietary guidelines focus on nutrient content but fail to address food processing levels.

Call for Updated Guidelines and Public Education

The researchers recommend that medical professionals:

• Discuss the health dangers of ultra-processed foods with patients
• Educate patients on identifying these foods
• Promote better understanding of food labeling and regulation
• Advocate for updated dietary guidelines that consider food processing

The scientists concluded that current dietary advice does not adequately reflect the risks associated with ultra-processed foods, underscoring the need for urgent action to improve public health education.