Ultra-processed foods linked to higher risk of heart attack, Study Finds

NEW YORK: A new study has found that ultra-processed foods may be responsible for a significant proportion of heart disease cases, including heart attacks and strokes, highlighting growing concerns about the health impact of modern dietary habits.

A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart is severely reduced or blocked, often due to the buildup of fat, cholesterol and other substances in the arteries. This buildup, known as plaque, can lead to the formation of blood clots that restrict blood circulation to the heart.

According to research published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, the consumption of ultra-processed foods is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Ultra-processed foods undergo multiple stages of industrial processing and typically contain high levels of salt, sugar, unhealthy fats and artificial ingredients, while offering little nutritional value such as fiber, vitamins and minerals.

Common examples include fast food, packaged bread, cakes, sweets, snacks, breakfast cereals, instant noodles, sugary beverages, soft drinks, and processed products such as chicken and fish nuggets.

Researchers analyzed data from thousands of cardiovascular disease cases in Canada in 2019 to examine factors contributing to heart attacks, strokes and other heart-related conditions. The study found that ultra-processed foods were linked to between 23 percent and 38 percent of cardiovascular disease cases.

The researchers estimated that reducing the consumption of ultra-processed foods by 20 to 50 percent could help prevent millions of heart disease cases worldwide each year.

They stressed that the findings underscore the need for public health measures aimed at reducing the intake of heavily processed foods and encouraging healthier dietary choices.

Health experts note that the high salt content of many ultra-processed foods can increase the risk of high blood pressure, which damages blood vessels and raises the likelihood of heart attacks and strokes. In addition, excessive amounts of sugar, trans fats, calories and processed ingredients can have long-term negative effects on overall health.