European heart specialists urge patients to cut ultra-processed foods
Updated
Updated · The Independent · May 6
European heart specialists urge patients to cut ultra-processed foods
8 articles · Updated · The Independent · May 6
In a European Society of Cardiology consensus statement published in the European Heart Journal, experts also told clinicians to promote home cooking, slower eating and avoiding late meals.
The guidance says ultra-processed foods are often overlooked in heart-clinic dietary advice despite studies linking them to higher cardiovascular risk, obesity, type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure.
Doctors were urged to steer patients away from sugary drinks, packaged snacks and processed meats, while outside experts said policy changes are also needed to make healthier, less processed foods easier to choose.
Is the 'ultra-processed' label a vital health warning or a misleading concept that unfairly demonizes modern foods?
Can the food industry truly reformulate its products to be healthy, or is it just 'health-washing' a crisis?
As America cracks down on processed foods, will healthy eating become a luxury only the rich can afford?
Ultra-Processed Foods Linked to 25% Higher Heart Disease Risk: European Experts Urge Immediate Dietary Changes
Overview
A major report in the European Heart Journal warns that eating a lot of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) greatly increases the risk of heart disease and early death. This warning is based on a growing body of research showing strong links between UPFs and serious health problems like obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and chronic kidney disease. The report urges healthcare professionals to talk with patients about the dangers of UPFs and to give practical advice on how to cut back. Doctors are encouraged to make these discussions a regular part of patient care to help improve heart health.