The image highlights the brain regions identified in the study as being associated with the high consumption of ultra-processed foods. Cell density is lower in the grey regions. This may point to a loss of neurons, that is, diminished brain activity in these regions. Cell density is higher in the green regions, implying the presence of inflammatory changes in the brain. Credit: University of Helsinki

Studies have linked the high consumption of ultra-processed foods with multiple diseases, including diabetes, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease, and dementia. A recent international study explored the connection between ultra-processed food consumption and brain structure.

The study was conducted using data from the UK Biobank, encompassing about 30, 000 middle-aged individuals from the U.K. It was carried out by the University of Helsinki's O'BRAIN Lab, which studies the link between the brain and obesity, in collaboration with the Montreal Neurological Institute. The work is published in the journal npj Metabolic Health and Disease.

"Our findings indicate that a high consumption of ultra-processed foods is associated with structural changes in brain regions regulating eating behavior, such as the hypothalamus, amygdala and right nucleus accumbens. This may lead to a cycle of overeating. However, long-term and experimental studies are still needed to strengthen the association, " says doctoral researcher Arsène Kanyamibwa of the University of Helsinki.

The study indicated that the link between ultra-processed foods and overeating cannot be accounted for solely by the resultant inflammation or obesity. Changes in the brain may also be explained by the ingredients, emulsifiers and other additives used to make ultra-processed foods.

Kanyamibwa believes that the unhealthy effects of ultra-processed foods should be given more attention as part of personal food choices, food regulation and nutrition policy alike.

He notes, however, that not all processed foods need be avoided.

"In particular, processed foods of plant origin, such as frozen vegetables, can be recommended. Another good example of the benefits of processing is the pasteurization of milk. In contrast, foods high in chemically modified ingredients and additives, such as processed meat products, are problematic. The nutrition and dietary recommendations published in Finland last year offer a solid foundation for healthy eating."

More information: Filip Morys et al, Ultra-processed food consumption affects structural integrity of feeding-related brain regions independent of and via adiposity, npj Metabolic Health and Disease (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s44324-025-00056-3