look news india
New research from Harvard University has raised alarm bells for junk food lovers. Research has shown that people who regularly eat ultra-processed food from outside have an increased risk of premature death. This means they may die before the average age. This is not a small study. This report has been prepared after monitoring the eating habits and lifestyle of 1 lakh 14 thousand people for more than 30 years.
Let us first understand what is ultra processed food?
There is no single definition of ultra-processed food, but it usually includes ingredients that are not commonly used in home cooking. And these elements cause huge harm to health. Such as preservatives, colors and artificial sweeteners. A diet that is high in fat and lacking in nutrients and fiber.
Ultra processed food is also called cosmetic food. In this, natural elements of food are removed and artificial elements are replaced in their place. Due to which its nutrients are destroyed. Processed foods include cakes, pastries, noodles, candies, chips, ready-to-eat foods, high sugar drinks, etc.
What was found in the research?
The study has been published in the medical journal BMJ and reveals the risks associated with the consumption of ultra-processed foods. Eating too much ultra-processed food increases the risk of death. People who regularly consume ultra-processed meat are 13 percent more likely to die prematurely. People who consume too many sweets and artificial sugar (soft drinks) have a 9 percent higher risk of early death.
Researchers examined 48,193 deaths during the nearly 34-year study, including 13,557 deaths from cancer, 11,416 deaths from cardiovascular diseases, 3,926 deaths from respiratory diseases and 6,343 deaths from neurodegenerative diseases.
It has been concluded that limiting the intake of certain ultra-processed foods is important for longevity. The classification of ultra-processed food also needs improvement.
Several other previously published studies have also found links between ultra-processed foods and cancer, mental health problems, type 2 diabetes and premature death. Ultra processed food has now become an essential part of the common man's diet, especially in western countries. Half of the daily diet of the people there is ultra-processed food. This proportion can increase to 80 percent among youth and low-income people.
The overall conclusion is that if you want to be healthy and live a long life then stay away from ultra processed foods.