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Excessive consumption of ultra-processed foods has been associated with a growing list of health concerns, including diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. New findings suggest bone health may also be affected, with higher intake contributing to reduced bone mass and an increasing hip fracture risk.
Widely available and increasingly popular, ultra-processed foods have become a regular part of many diets, with people consuming an estimated 8 servings per day. But the study found that adding just a few extra servings a day was linked to more than a 10 percent increase in hip fracture risk. Often low in calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D, and high in sodium, ultra-processed foods may work against healthy bones by increasing calcium loss.
The study examined data from more than 160,000 adults in the UK Biobank, who were followed for 12 years. Participants, whose average age was 56, reported their eating habits through up to five 24-hour dietary recall surveys completed over five years.
Over the course of the study, 1,097 people experienced hip fractures and 7,889 had fractures elsewhere in the body. The researchers found that for every 3.7 extra servings of ultra-processed foods consumed each day, hip fracture risk rose by 10.5%, while the risk of fractures overall increased by 2.7%. While bone density problems are more common in older adults, the study found these harmful effects even in people younger than 65.
One of the most effective ways to support healthy bones is by focusing on whole, nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, dairy, and leafy greens. These foods provide key vitamins and minerals, as well as antioxidants and potassium that may reduce inflammation and help maintain strong bones. Limiting ultra-processed foods that contain high sugar content, frozen and instant meals can also make a difference.
To view the original scientific study click below:
Associations of ultra-processed food intake with bone mineral density and fractures in the UK Biobank
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