return2ozmaResearcher explains connection between ultra-processed foods and depression
profdc9What is an ultra-processed food? There needs to be some definition that is unambiguously applicable, otherwise this kind of study is worthless.
Diet was assessed using validated food frequency questionnaires (FFQs) every 4 years. We estimated UPF intake using the NOVA classification, which groups foods according to the degree of their processing. In secondary analyses, we classified UPF into their components, including ultraprocessed grain foods, sweet snacks, ready-to-eat meals, fats and sauces, ultraprocessed dairy products, savory snacks, processed meat, beverages, and artificial sweeteners.
So like… anything you’re not cooking from scratch yourself. And even a lot of things you are, like any baked good would qualify as ultra-processed due to sweeteners and emulsifiers (e.g. egg).
Read the link 😑