A recent study has shed light on the alarming connection between ultra-processed foods and an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes
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Researchers found that individuals who consumed more of these highly processed foods were significantly more likely to develop the chronic condition
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Ultra-processed foods (UPF) are those that undergo extensive industrial processing, often involving the addition of artificial flavors, colours, sweeteners, and preservatives
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According to a study published Sunday in The Lancet Regional Health – Europe, this category includes many convenience foods, such as:
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Packaged snacks: Chips, cookies, candy, and crackers
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Ready-to-eat meals: Frozen dinners, microwaveable meals, and canned goods
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Processed meats: Hot dogs, sausages, bacon, and deli meats
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Sodas and sweetened beverages
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For the study, researchers analysed the UPF consumption of nearly 312,000 people from eight European countries
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The participants were tracked for around 11 years on average — during that time, almost 15,000 developed Type 2 diabetes
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The researchers said you can lower the risk by substituting unprocessed or minimally processed foods such as eggs, milk and fruits.