Ultra-processed food consumption and increased risk of metabolic syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies

Diets that encourage the ingestion of ultra-processed foods may confer individuals with high probability of developing metabolic syndrome.

This study determined if ultra-processed food consumption is tied to heightened risk of metabolic syndrome. Researchers performed a comprehensive meta-analysis on evidence culled from 9 studies that examined over 30,000 healthy individuals and patients with metabolic syndrome. 

Researchers identified a strong connection between elevated ingestion of ultra-processed foods and increased odds of metabolic syndrome. This study suggests that the chances of developing metabolic syndrome may be high among individuals who preferred consuming ultra-processed foods.