Intake of Ultraprocessed Foods Linked to Higher Mortality in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes

Ultraprocessed foods (UPFs) have long been associated with negative health outcomes, including cardiovascular issues and premature mortality. However, their impact on patients with type 2 diabetes has remained largely unknown. A recent study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition by Bonaccio M. and colleagues sought to examine the relationship between UPF consumption and mortality rates in individuals with type 2 diabetes. The findings revealed alarming results, indicating that UPF intake may pose significant health risks, even in those adhering to a healthy diet like the Mediterranean Diet.

Researchers conducted a prospective observational cohort study with 1,065 participants diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. The participants completed a detailed food frequency questionnaire, allowing researchers to assess their UPF consumption over an average follow-up period of 12 years.

● The study revealed a linear dose-response relationship between UPF intake and mortality rates in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

● Those with higher UPF consumption (more than 9% of total food eaten) had a 60% increased risk of all-cause mortality compared to those with lower UPF intake (less than 4.7% of total food eaten).

● The risk of mortality from cardiovascular diseases, a leading cause of death in type 2 diabetes patients, more than doubled in those with greater UPF consumption.

The negative associations between UPF intake and mortality persisted regardless of diet quality, including a good adherence to the Mediterranean Diet. This suggests that even with a generally healthy diet, UPFs may still exert harmful effects on health.

The study findings emphasize the hazardous impact of ultraprocessed foods on individuals with type 2 diabetes. UPFs, known for their low nutrient content and high levels of unhealthy additives, pose a significant risk of premature mortality, especially for those already vulnerable due to diabetes-related complications. The results suggest that a healthy diet alone may not be sufficient to counteract the detrimental effects of UPFs in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Lead researcher Marialaura Bonaccio, PhD, highlighted the importance of reducing UPF consumption in this population to mitigate the risk of mortality. "A diet rich in ultraprocessed foods exposes people with diabetes to a greater risk of death," Bonaccio stated. The study's findings call for increased awareness and public health initiatives aimed at promoting healthier eating habits and reducing the consumption of ultraprocessed foods among individuals with type 2 diabetes.

Reference:

For people with diabetes, healthy eating is not enough if their diet is rich in ultra-processed foods. Published July 26, 2023. Accessed July 26, 2023. Bonaccio M, et al. Am J Clin Nutr. 2023;doi:10.1016/j.ajcnut.2023.07.004.