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Ultra-processed foods increase the risk of respiratory disease
Last reviewed: 02.07.2025
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A new study by SAHMRI and the University of Adelaide has found that a diet high in ultra-processed foods (UPFs) significantly increases the risk of death from chronic respiratory diseases.
Led by graduate student Tefer Mekonnen, the study, published in the European Journal of Nutrition, analyzed data from more than 96,000 people in the United States between 1999 and 2018. The study looked at how consumption of highly processed foods impacts various chronic respiratory diseases.
"We found that people whose diets consisted of more than 40% UOP had a 26% higher risk of dying from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and a 10% higher risk of dying from overall chronic respiratory diseases, including lung cancer, chronic bronchitis, emphysema and asthma," Mekonnen said.
"Those who consumed the highest amounts of UOP tended to be younger, had a higher body mass index and a greater risk of diabetes, emphysema and high blood pressure, and their overall diet was of lower quality."
Examples of ultra-processed foods include chips, chocolate, candy, cookies, processed meats, fried chicken, soda, ice cream, and others.
"These products contain a lot of preservatives and additives that enter the bloodstream and can contribute to oxidative stress and chronic inflammation, worsening respiratory health," Mekonnen added.
The study is one of the largest to date looking at the effects of ultra-processed foods on respiratory health.
The researchers believe there will be no significant differences between the US and other Western countries such as Australia, as the populations follow similar diets.
"Our study shows that reducing consumption of ultra-processed foods can significantly improve respiratory health and reduce the risk of death from chronic respiratory diseases," Mekonnen said.
Further research is needed to examine in more detail the mechanisms through which dietary factors influence respiratory health.