For People with Diabetes, Healthy Eating is not enough if their Diet is Rich in Ultra-Processed Foods

When it comes to managing type 2 diabetes, a healthy and nutritious diet is crucial. Paying attention to calories and nutrients is an integral part of a diabetic person’s lifestyle. However, a recent study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggests that simply focusing on healthy eating may not be enough. The degree of processing of foods, specifically ultra-processed foods, that end up on the plate could play a significant role in determining the future health status of individuals with type 2 diabetes.

Understanding Ultra-Processed Foods

Ultra-processed foods are products that have undergone intense processing and contain substances that are not typically used in the kitchen. These products often include hydrolyzed proteins, maltodextrins, hydrogenated fats, and various food additives such as colorings, preservatives, antioxidants, flavor enhancers, and sweeteners. While packaged snacks, fizzy and sugary drinks, ready-to-eat meals, and fast food come to mind, it’s important to note that the level of processing and use of additives can also be found in seemingly healthful foods such as fruit yogurt, breakfast cereals, crackers, and many meat substitutes. These ultra-processed foods are designed to enhance taste, appearance, and shelf life rather than improve nutritional properties.

The Impact of Ultra-Processed Foods on Diabetes and Mortality

The study conducted by the Department of Epidemiology and Prevention at the I.R.C.C.S. Neuromed in Pozzilli, Italy, analyzed data from the large Moli-sani Study, specifically examining 1,066 participants with type 2 diabetes. The results showed that a high consumption of ultra-processed foods was associated with a substantial increase in the risk of mortality, particularly from cardiovascular diseases, regardless of the nutritional quality of the diet or adherence to the Mediterranean Diet.

Participants who reported higher consumption of ultra-processed foods had a 60% increased risk of dying from any cause compared to those consuming fewer of these products. The risk of mortality from cardiovascular diseases, which are a leading cause of death for people with diabetes, was more than doubled. This risk was observed even among individuals who reported good adherence to the Mediterranean Diet, suggesting that the potential benefits of a healthful dietary pattern can be undermined by a high intake of ultra-processed foods.

Implications for Managing Type 2 Diabetes

The findings from this study have important implications for future dietary guidelines and the management of type 2 diabetes. While it is already known that adopting a diet based on well-known nutritional requirements is essential for managing the condition, this study suggests that dietary recommendations should also emphasize limiting the consumption of ultra-processed foods as much as possible.

Giovanni de Gaetano, President of the IRCCS Neuromed of Pozzilli, comments on the importance of these results, stating that they may shape future dietary guidelines for managing type 2 diabetes. In addition to promoting a diet based on nutritional requirements, recommendations should also highlight the need to limit the consumption of ultra-processed foods. To facilitate this, front-of-pack nutrition labels should include information on the degree of food processing so that individuals can make informed choices.

The Moli-sani Study

The Moli-sani Study, started in March 2005, involves approximately 25,000 citizens living in the Molise region. The aim of the study is to understand the environmental and genetic factors underlying cardiovascular disease, cancer, and degenerative disorders. The Moli-sani Study, now based at the I.R.C.C.S. Neuromed, has transformed an entire Italian region into a large research laboratory.

The I.R.C.C.S. Neuromed

The Institute for Research, Hospitalization, and Health Care (I.R.C.C.S.) Neuromed in Pozzilli, Italy, is a renowned center for research and therapy in the field of neurological and cardiovascular diseases. This center brings together doctors, researchers, staff, and patients to provide the best level of service and cutting-edge treatments based on the latest scientific advancements.

Key Points from the Study:

• A high consumption of ultra-processed foods is associated with an increased risk of mortality, particularly from cardiovascular diseases, in individuals with type 2 diabetes, regardless of the nutritional quality of the diet.
• The risk of mortality increases by 60% for individuals who consume higher amounts of ultra-processed foods compared to those who consume fewer of these products.
• This increased risk is observed even in individuals who adhere to the Mediterranean Diet, suggesting that the potential benefits of a healthful dietary pattern may be undermined by a high intake of ultra-processed foods.
• Dietary recommendations for managing type 2 diabetes should emphasize limiting the consumption of ultra-processed foods in addition to promoting a diet based on well-known nutritional requirements.
• Front-of-pack nutrition labels should include information on the degree of food processing to help individuals make informed choices.

Source Article: https://scienmag.com/for-people-with-diabetes-healthy-eating-is-not-enough-if-their-diet-is-rich-in-ultra-processed-foods/