Warning issued over everyday foods tied to heart attacks, strokes, and diabetes

Published in Food and Wine on Sunday, August 10th 2025 at 4:38 GMT by WFTV
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The American Heart Association has issued a scientific advisory warning against consuming ultra-processed foods.

Warning Issued Over Everyday Foods Linked to Serious Health Risks

Health experts have issued a stark warning about a range of common everyday foods that many people consume without a second thought, highlighting their potential to contribute to severe health issues, including chronic diseases and even premature death. The alert comes from a coalition of nutritionists, researchers, and public health organizations, who are urging consumers to rethink their dietary habits in light of mounting evidence from recent studies. These foods, often staples in modern diets, are not exotic or rare but items found in pantries, refrigerators, and fast-food menus across the globe. The warning emphasizes that while occasional indulgence might not pose immediate harm, regular consumption could accumulate risks over time, leading to conditions like obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.

At the forefront of this advisory are ultra-processed foods (UPFs), which have been increasingly scrutinized in scientific literature. UPFs are defined as products that undergo extensive industrial processing and contain additives such as preservatives, emulsifiers, artificial flavors, and sweeteners. Examples include sugary cereals, packaged snacks like chips and cookies, ready-to-eat meals, sodas, and even some seemingly healthy options like flavored yogurts or energy bars. According to experts, these foods are engineered to be hyper-palatable, encouraging overconsumption through a perfect blend of sugar, salt, and fat that hijacks the brain's reward system, much like addictive substances.

One key study referenced in the warning, published in a prominent medical journal, analyzed data from over 100,000 participants over a decade. It found that individuals who derived more than 14% of their daily calories from UPFs had a 21% higher risk of all-cause mortality compared to those with lower intake. The researchers attributed this to the inflammatory effects of these foods, which disrupt gut microbiota, promote insulin resistance, and contribute to systemic inflammation. Dr. Elena Ramirez, a lead nutritionist involved in the advisory, explained, "These aren't just empty calories; they're loaded with chemicals that our bodies aren't designed to handle in large quantities. Over time, they erode our health from the inside out."

Beyond UPFs, the warning extends to specific everyday items that many consider harmless or even beneficial. For instance, processed meats such as bacon, sausages, hot dogs, and deli slices are flagged for their high sodium content and preservatives like nitrates, which have been classified as carcinogenic by the World Health Organization. Regular consumption has been linked to colorectal cancer, with studies showing a 18% increased risk per 50 grams eaten daily. Similarly, sugary beverages, including sodas, fruit juices with added sugars, and energy drinks, are called out for their role in the obesity epidemic. These drinks provide little nutritional value while spiking blood sugar levels, leading to weight gain and metabolic disorders. The advisory notes that even diet versions, with artificial sweeteners, may not be a safe alternative, as emerging research suggests they could alter gut bacteria and potentially increase cravings for sweets.

Another surprising inclusion in the warning is refined grains, such as white bread, pasta, and rice. While whole grains are praised for their fiber and nutrients, their refined counterparts strip away these benefits, leaving behind starches that rapidly convert to sugar in the body. This can lead to energy crashes, increased hunger, and long-term risks like type 2 diabetes. Experts recommend swapping these for whole-grain alternatives to maintain steady blood sugar and support heart health.

Fried foods, often enjoyed as comfort eats like french fries, fried chicken, or doughnuts, are also under scrutiny due to the formation of harmful compounds during high-heat cooking. Acrylamide, a chemical produced when starchy foods are fried or baked at high temperatures, is a known neurotoxin and potential carcinogen. The warning cites European food safety guidelines that advise limiting intake to reduce exposure.

The advisory doesn't stop at listing dangers; it provides practical guidance for consumers. Nutritionists suggest adopting a "whole foods" approach, focusing on fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, nuts, and seeds. Reading labels is crucial—look for products with fewer than five ingredients and avoid those with unrecognizable additives. Meal prepping home-cooked meals can help sidestep UPFs, and incorporating mindful eating practices, like savoring meals slowly, can curb overeating triggered by processed foods' addictive qualities.

Public health advocates are calling for broader systemic changes, including stricter regulations on food labeling and advertising, especially those targeting children. In some countries, taxes on sugary drinks have already shown promise in reducing consumption, and similar measures could be applied to other high-risk categories. Schools and workplaces are encouraged to promote healthier options in cafeterias and vending machines.

This warning arrives amid a global health crisis where diet-related diseases account for a significant portion of healthcare burdens. In the United States alone, poor diet is linked to hundreds of thousands of preventable deaths annually, underscoring the urgency of the message. Experts stress that awareness is the first step: by understanding the hidden risks in everyday foods, individuals can make informed choices that enhance longevity and well-being.

For those feeling overwhelmed, starting small is advised—perhaps by replacing one processed snack with a piece of fruit each day or opting for water over soda. Over time, these changes can compound into substantial health benefits. The overarching message is clear: what we eat daily shapes our future health, and ignoring these warnings could come at a high cost. As Dr. Ramirez puts it, "Food should nourish, not harm. It's time to reclaim control over our plates."

This comprehensive alert serves as a wake-up call, blending scientific insights with actionable advice to empower consumers in an era dominated by convenience foods. By heeding it, people can navigate the modern food landscape more safely, prioritizing vitality over fleeting pleasures. (Word count: 928)

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Warning issued over everyday foods tied to heart attacks, strokes, and diabetes

Warning Issued Over Everyday Foods Linked to Serious Health Risks