Eating ultra-processed foods may rewire the brain and drive overeating

Science DailyCenterEN 2 min read 100% complete October 21, 2025 at 04:23 AM

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medium article 2 min

An international team of scientists has discovered a link between frequent consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) and changes in brain structure through analyzing brain scans from approximately 30,000 participants. These brain differences may contribute to overeating behaviors but do not definitively establish causation. The study, utilizing data from the UK Biobank, was conducted by researchers at the University of Helsinki and McGill University's Montréal Neurological Institute. While inflammation or obesity does not solely explain these associations, ingredients specific to UPFs like emulsifiers may play a role, though further evidence is needed. Researchers suggest reducing UPF intake and enhancing food manufacturing regulations for better public health outcomes.

Key Topics & Entities

UK Biobank 60% University of Helsinki 80% Arsène Kanyamibwa ×2100%

Keywords

ultra-processed foods 100% brain structure 90% overeating 80% food addiction 70% dietary intake 60% processed vs ultra-processed 60% neuroscience 50% public health policy 50% imaging analysis 40% uk biobank 40%

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ultra-processed foods brain structure overeating food addiction dietary intake processed vs ultra-processed neuroscience public health policy imaging analysis uk biobank

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