UPFs are not real foods. Instead they are foods manufactured from oils, fats, sugars, starches, and proteins, and then enhanced using additives such as emulsifiers (for softness), flavorings (for taste), colourings, and preservatives (for a long shelf life)

UPFS are usually high in saturated fat, sugar, and salt (sodium), and low in healthy nutrients such as fiber, vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals

Regular consumption of UPFs is linked to many physical and mental health illnesses, including obesity, heart disease, diabetes, certain types of cancer, depression and dementia

Infographic depicting the Mediterranean, the DASH, and the MIND diets, which have all been shown to lower the risk and slow the progress of cognitive decline and dementia

The food we eat is one of the most significant factors associated with whether we develop type 2 diabetes. The global burden of type 2 diabetes attributable to diet across 204 countries increased significantly between 1990 and 2021, resulting in a 92% increase in years lost due to premature death and years living with illness or disability and a 28% increase in death. Major contributors to the increasing burden were a high intake of processed red meat and sugar-sweetened beverages.

Science-backed nutrients, foods, and diets to eat to prevent type 2 diabetes are highlighted in this fully referenced article.