New study links ultra-processed foods to higher obesity risk in young boys

A new Canadian study has found that toddlers who consume high amounts of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are nearly 20 per cent more likely to be living with overweight or obese by the age of five.

The research, which analysed the diets of 2,217 toddlers, highlights a concerning link between early UPF consumption and obesity, but notably, only in boys.

The study revealed that when boys consumed more UPFs at the age of three, they faced a significantly increased risk of living with obesity by the time they turned five. Surprisingly, this correlation was not observed in girls of the same age group.

UPFs accounted for 45 per cent of the toddlers' daily calorie intake, with popular items including biscuits, sweets, breakfast cereals, and chicken nuggets. The data showed that if a male toddler's daily caloric intake from UPFs increased by just 10 per cent, his risk of becoming overweight or obese rose by 19 per cent. This could be as simple as eating an extra chocolate bar each day.

Dr. Kozeta Miliku, lead author of the study, described the findings as alarming: "It is concerning to see such a strong association between young children's consumption of ultra-processed foods and an increased risk of obesity at such an early age. This matters because children living with obesity often continue to face these health challenges into adulthood, increasing their risk of conditions like high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes."

Ultra-processed foods typically contain artificial ingredients such as emulsifiers, which prevent separation of water and oil, and preservatives to extend shelf life. Researchers believe these additives may alter gut bacteria composition, potentially influencing obesity risk in boys. However, they caution that more research is needed to fully understand the biological mechanisms involved.

Co-author Dr. Howard Chen from the University of Toronto emphasised the need for further studies on gut bacteria in children to explore the potential links between UPFs and obesity development.

In response to these findings, the researchers are advocating for stronger public health measures. Dr. Miliku suggested implementing clearer food labeling, similar to the 'traffic light' nutritional information already seen on some products. "We really need to do more to tackle the diet of our little ones. UPFs are very accessible and convenient, especially for busy families, but there are opportunities to improve children's diets through better labeling and increased awareness," she said.