Processed Food–Associated Health Risks: Evidence-Based Links to Metabolic Syndrome, Inflammation, and Disease
Processed foods are industrial formulations designed for palatability, shelf stability, and convenience, typically characterized by high levels of added sugars, refined starches, salt (sodium), and/or unhealthy fats, along with lower concentrations of fiber, micronutrients, and protective phytochemicals. Although not all processed foods are equally harmful (e.g., minimally processed items like frozen vegetables), dietary patterns dominated… Read More »