Ultra-processed foods may harm your health Most Americans get over half their daily calories from ultra-processed foods (UPFs), the American Heart Association reports. These foods are popular for a reason—they’re convenient, made to taste great and often more affordable. But they can also raise your risk for serious health conditions. UPFs are considered the most processed foods They’re multi-ingredient foods with additives meant to improve shelf life, appearance, flavor or texture. Examples include: ● Sugar-sweetened drinks. ● Ultra-processed meats, such as deli meat. ● Sweet or salty packaged snacks. ● Canned or instant soups. That said, some UPFs—for instance, vitamin-fortified foods—can support a healthy diet. How UPFs affect health risks Because UPFs contain a lot of salt, sugar and saturated fats, eating them regularly has been linked to health issues, such as: Worse brain health. Frequently eating UPFs is linked to problems with attention, planning and decision-making and to a higher risk of stroke and Alzheimer’s disease. Heart disease risk. The more UPFs a person eats, the higher their risk for high blood pressure and heart attack, possibly related to inflammation, oxidative stress and blood vessel damage. Diabetes. UPFs are often higher in calories and added sugars. Regularly eating UPFs can lead to weight gain, which increases the risk of both diabetes and obesity. Cancer. Studies have linked UPFs to certain types of cancer, including breast, pancreatic, colorectal and ovarian cancers. Ease UPFs out of your diet You don’t have to avoid UPFs completely. But scaling back could help your health. Start with a few small changes: ● Read food labels. Choose foods low in saturated fat, sodium and added sugar. ● Cook at home for more control over ingredients. Pick a few nights a week to try new recipes or old favorites. ● Make small swaps. Here’s one: Try replacing deli meat with leftover roasted chicken. ● Keep healthy snacks on hand, where they’re easy to grab. Sources: Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics; American College of Cardiology; American Heart Association; American Institute for Cancer Research; American Medical Association Standard U.S. Postage PAID Yakima, WA Permit No. 157 KERN LEGACY HEALTH PLANS 1115 Truxtun Avenue, First Floor Bakersfield, CA 93301 A LEGACY OF GOOD HEALTH is published as a community service for the friends and members of KERN LEGACY HEALTH PLANS, 1115 Truxtun Ave., First Floor, Bakersfield, CA 93301, telephone 661-868-3182. Information in A LEGACY OF GOOD HEALTH comes from a wide range of medical experts. If you have any concerns or questions about specific content that may affect your health, please contact your health care provider. Models may be used in photos and illustrations. 2026 © Coffey Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. Kern Legacy Health Plans Need nutrition counseling? Your Kern Legacy Health Plan covers nutrition services for adults and children who are overweight or obese and have additional cardiovascular or diabetes risk factors. Speak with your physician to see if you would benefit from these services. To find a network provider, call the Member Services number on the back of your ID card or visit www.kerncountyhealthbenefits.com.
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