Ultra-processed foods can change the structure of the brain and trigger eating habits.
According to news on DailyMail; Research has revealed that overly processed foods not only lead to obesity and metabolic diseases but can also affect the structure of the brain, perpetuating the cycle of overeating.Research published in the journal Nature says ultra-processed foods (UPF), which contain additives, emulsifiers and preservatives to enhance flavor and extend shelf life, may be linked to changes in the brain. Professor Arsène Kanyamibwa from the University of Helsinki said: “Our findings suggest that high consumption of processed foods is associated with differences in the brain. These associations may be related to behavioral patterns such as overeating, but our study cannot confirm a cause-and-effect relationship.”The study highlights that the observed changes cannot be explained solely by inflammation or obesity and that UPF-specific components, such as emulsifiers, may also play a role.Research shows that overly processed foods cause changes in the hypothalamus and reward centers, such as cell density and water content. Changes in these regions can disrupt emotional regulation related to hunger, fullness, and food addiction. Experts say this can cause people to consume more food even though they are full and cannot control their eating behavior.Changes observed in the brain (nucleus accumbens and pallidum) related to reward and motivation may reflect early signs of cognitive decline, brain shrinkage and cell loss. Researchers point out that these effects may reinforce the vicious cycle that begins with overconsumption of processed foods.These findings are consistent with previous research on the adverse health effects of UPF consumption. An international study conducted at the beginning of the year found that consuming an extra 100 grams of processed foods per day increased the risk of life-threatening heart disease by 5.9% and increased the risk of high blood pressure by 14.5%.The term UPF includes products such as prepared meals, ice cream, and ketchup that are made with colorings, sweeteners, and preservatives that extend shelf life.The UK is one of the countries in Europe with the largest population consuming UPF; About 57% of the total diet consists of these foods.Professor Kanyamibwa said: “Consuming ultra-processed foods increases several nutritional and metabolic markers of disease, and is associated with structural brain changes in regions that regulate eating behaviour. These findings help us understand the negative health effects of consuming ultra-processed foods and how this behavior may perpetuate itself.”
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