Ultra Processed Foods Linked to Higher Cardiovascular Disease and Death
The consensus cites observational evidence and says risk may rise with weight gain, diabetes and high blood pressure.
- On Thursday, May 7, 2026, the European Society of Cardiology published a clinical consensus statement in the European Heart Journal examining the link between ultra-processed foods and cardiovascular disease risk.
- Adults with the highest UPF consumption face up to a 19% higher risk of heart disease, a 13% higher risk of atrial fibrillation, and a 65% increased risk of cardiovascular death compared with lowest consumers.
- Cardiologists are advised to recommend patients prioritize home cooking and reduce intake of sugary drinks and processed meats, while eating more slowly to lower cardiovascular risks.
- Researchers caution that most evidence remains observational, requiring careful interpretation; the statement calls for policy reforms to update food labeling and marketing practices to improve public awareness.
- Dr. Alexander Jones, BHF Clinical Research Fellow in Paediatric Cardiovascular Medicine at University of Oxford, stated the consensus provides a "sound evidence-base" for public health authorities to make UPF awareness mainstream in cardiovascular prevention.
12 Articles
12 Articles
A clinical consensus of experts from Europe reviewed more than 75 studies with follow-up of up to 357,000 people. Why they warn that the risk comes not only from sugar or fats, but also from packaging additives and contaminants
A recent opinion by European heart experts shows that those who eat a lot of highly processed foods have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.
Limit ultra-processed foods to lower risk of heart disease, say experts
People who eat more ultra-processed food (UPF) have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease and death, according to a report published in the European Heart Journal. The report, by a group of cardiology experts from across Europe, brings together the results of all research on UPFs and cardiovascular disease that has been published to date.
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