Ultra-processed (UP) foods have become a large part of the American diet and have a negative effect on population health. “65 percent of adult females, 70 percent of adult males, and nearly one in three children (2-19 years) are overweight or obese.”  Obesity rates have increased along with the popularity of UP foods which leaves many to question whether UP foods are the cause of obesity. Ultra-processed foods include fast foods (hamburgers, fries, strawberry soda) which have been modified and lose nutritional value while being processed. Fast food has become an unhealthy staple in the American diet as according to the New York Times, 2.6 billion southern-style chicken sandwiches were ordered in the US. “There is increasing concern by health experts that the easy availability of highly processed foods is contributing to the ever-increasing rates of obesity seen around the world.”Obesity as well as unhealthy eating habits have become a prevalent issue in the US and many believe the solution is to change the population’s diet. “Americans are not eating enough fruit, whole grains, and vegetables. And we’re eating too much-added sugars, refined grains, sodium, saturated fat, and calories.”  By eliminating supplements such as saturated fats, sodium, and added sugar implementing more fruits, grains, and vegetables could assist in decreasing American obesity rates. In order to increase the popularity of organic and non-processed foods UP food’s relevance will have to decrease. Some well-known diets that would fall under the anti-UP foods category include the Mediterranean diet which features seafood, whole grains, nuts, and less red and processed meats. Another well-known diet would be the vegetarian diet which cuts out all meat and seafood and encourages more nuts, vegetables, and low-fat dairy.

Sources: Salomon, Sharon. “What Are the Health Implications of ‘Ultra-Processed’ Foods?” Environmental Nutrition, vol. 38, no. 4, Apr. 2015, p. 2. EBSCOhost, search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=asn&AN=101464999&site=ehost-live.