health
New Study: Ultraprocessed Foods Linked To Preterm Birth and Pregnancy Complications
Consumption of ultraprocessed foods is linked to preterm birth and pregnancy complications, according to a new US study
TL;DR
- Consumption of ultraprocessed foods (UPFs) during pregnancy is associated with preterm birth and pregnancy complications like preeclampsia.
- A 10-percentage-point increase in calorie intake from UPFs was linked to an 11% higher risk of preterm birth and a 5% higher risk of blood-pressure disorders.
- Blood-pressure disorders are a leading cause of maternal and newborn illness and death in the US.
- Potential mechanisms include inflammation, hormone disruption, deficiencies in vital nutrients, and increased cardiometabolic risk.
- The study excluded participants with certain pre-existing conditions, miscarriages, or missing dietary data.
- Foods were classified using the NOVA system based on their level of processing.