Ultra-processed food intake tied to thigh muscle fat buildup in knee study

The short version

• An analysis of 615 adults at risk for knee osteoarthritis found an association between higher ultra-processed food consumption and elevated fat inside thigh muscles.[ScienceDaily]
• The correlation persisted after adjusting for physical activity, overall calorie and fat consumption, and sociodemographic variables.[ScienceDaily]
• Participants averaged 60 years of age with a mean body mass index of 27, and roughly 41% of their reported diet consisted of ultra-processed items.[ScienceDaily]
• Lead author Dr. Zehra Akkaya described the work as the first investigation assessing the effect of ultra-processed diets on thigh muscle structure via MRI.[ScienceDaily]

Key facts

• MRI scans of 615 adults at risk for knee osteoarthritis revealed that higher ultra-processed food consumption correlates with greater fat buildup in thigh muscles.[ScienceDaily]
• The relationship between ultra-processed diets and thigh muscle fat persisted after controlling for calorie and fat intake, exercise levels, and sociodemographic traits.[ScienceDaily]
• The cohort included 275 men and 340 women with a mean age of 60 and an average body mass index of 27.[ScienceDaily]
• Ultra-processed foods accounted for approximately 41% of total food consumption reported across the prior year.[ScienceDaily]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.

• Ultra-processed foods linked to hidden muscle fat that may threaten your kneesScienceDaily - Health