Study reveals that adolescents consume a high proportion of their daily calories from ultra-processed foods, with disparities based on sociodemographic factors.
- Adolescents consume around two-thirds of their daily calories from ultra-processed foods (UPFs), with consumption highest among those from deprived backgrounds, white ethnicity, and younger adolescents.
- UPFs are manufactured from industrial substances and contain additives, indicating poor dietary quality with high levels of added sugars, saturated fat, and sodium.
- A study analyzing data from almost 3,000 UK adolescents found that 66% of their energy intake came from UPFs, with a slight decrease over the years.
- Factors influencing UPF consumption include parents’ occupation, ethnicity, and region within the UK.
- Researchers suggest that public awareness, health concerns, and government-led campaigns can help reduce UPF intake and combat the negative health impacts.
Source link
Public Health & Prevention, Nutrition, Adolescents