From anxiety to cancer, the evidence against ultra-processed food piles up

Re:From anxiety to cancer, the evidence against ultra-proces... by kbf on Monday March 18, 2024 @02:05PM (#39747784)

I have Crohn’s disease and while there’s still a lot that isn’t understood, it’s clear that it’s linked to highly processed food. Crohn’s is more prevalent in western populations and it’s rising in places that are adopting western diets. There are studies showing that patients who don’t see results from medication can still achieve remission through a strict Mediterranean diet.

Obesity is a huge problem and the spotlight on it is warranted, but it’s also a very simple issue to understand and deal with. The effects of ultra processed foods are more complex and far less understood.

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Re:From anxiety to cancer, the evidence against ultra-proces... by amanj41 on Monday March 18, 2024 @02:56PM (#39748453)

I have IBD and definitely believe there is an association. But it still goes back to my question about "is there a safe limit". I think in particular for IBD, IBS, Crohn's etc, my suspicion is that there are two mechanisms at play with ultraprocessed diets:

1. Additives + microplastics in modern diets doing bad things to the microbiome. 2. Fiber intake is being reduced by ultaprocessed diets. I think the lack of pre+pro-biotics is a big deal, and ultraprocessed foods contribute to their reduced intake.

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