Impact of Ultra Processed Food (UPF) Consumption on Health: A Literature Review
Keywords:
อาหารแปรรูปชั้นสูง, สุขภาพ, โรคเรื้อรัง, ผลกระทบทางสุขภาพAbstract
Abstract
This research article aims to review the literature on the impact of ultra-processed food (UPF) consumption on health. Data from studies conducted between 2020 and 2024 were sourced from databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Mendeley, Web of Science and Google Scholar using search terms like "ultra-processed food and health," "health impacts of processed food," and "processed food consumption and health effects."
The findings indicate that UPF consumption adversely affects health in several ways. These include increased risk of obesity and overweight in both adults and children, heightened risk of type 2 diabetes (particularly in adults), and elevated risk of cardiovascular diseases (including coronary heart disease, stroke, and hypertension) in both populations. Furthermore, UPF consumption is associated with a significant increase in the risk of inflammatory bowel disease (especially in men) and certain cancers (such as estrogen-related breast cancer). Pregnant women are also at increased risk of health complications. Additionally, UPF consumption is linked to a reduction in the volume of grey matter in certain brain areas, particularly in individuals with obesity.
In conclusion, UPF consumption has a detrimental effect on overall health. To mitigate these risks and promote well-being, it is recommended to reduce the intake of UPFs and prioritize a diet rich in minimally processed or unprocessed whole foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, and natural sources of protein.
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