A recent study from UC San Francisco published in the journal Radiology has found that increased consumption of ultra-processed foods is associated with the accumulation of fat inside thigh muscles, even in individuals who do not show signs of knee osteoarthritis. This discovery is particularly concerning as this muscle fat is linked to a higher risk of developing osteoarthritis later.
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The research tracked 615 participants—275 men and 340 women—averaging 60 years of age and with a body mass index (BMI) indicative of being overweight. All participants were part of the Osteoarthritis Initiative, a research project funded by the NIH aimed at understanding how this joint disease develops. Findings revealed that ultra-processed foods constituted 41% of their dietary intake over the past year.
Importantly, the study indicated that the relationship between ultra-processed food consumption and muscle fat persisted even when controlling for total calorie intake, fat consumption, activity levels, and demographic factors. This suggests that the quality of food plays a critical role in health outcomes, separate from caloric quantity.
Lead researcher Dr. Zehra Akkaya highlighted the irony that as diets have shifted away from whole foods to industrially processed items, rates of obesity and knee osteoarthritis have also risen. Traditionally, preventative advice has focused on reducing calorie intake and increasing physical activity, but this study underscores the significance of food quality.
Ultra-processed foods are often engineered for mass appeal and longevity, often containing high levels of sugar, unhealthy fats, and salt while lacking in essential nutrients. While some processed foods can be nutritious, such as fortified cereals or certain plant-based products, many ultra-processed items, including sodas and fast foods, can contribute to health problems.
Dieticians advise limiting ultra-processed food intake and opting for whole, minimally processed options like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to improve health outcomes. They also recommend avoiding sugary drinks, processed meats, and fast food, which have been linked to adverse health effects.