Ultra-processed food exposure and adverse health outcomes

Ultra-processed food exposure and adverse health outcomes: umbrella review of epidemiological meta-analyses

BMJ 2024; 384 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj-2023-077310 (Published 28 February 2024)Cite this as: BMJ 2024;384:e077310

Linked Editorial

Reasons to avoid ultra-processed foods

 
 
  1. Melissa M Lane, associate research fellow1,
  2. Elizabeth Gamage, doctor of philosophy candidate1,
  3. Shutong Du, doctor of philosophy candidate2 3,
  4. Deborah N Ashtree, associate research fellow1,
  5. Amelia J McGuinness, associate research fellow1,
  6. Sarah Gauci, associate research fellow, adjunct research fellow14,
  7. Phillip Baker, senior research fellow5,
  8. Mark Lawrence, professor6,
  9. Casey M Rebholz, associate professor, core faculty23,
  10. Bernard Srour, junior professor7,
  11. Mathilde Touvier, research director7,
  12. Felice N Jacka, professor1 8 9,
  13. Adrienne O’Neil, professor1,
  14. Toby Segasby, doctor of philosophy candidate10,
  15. Wolfgang Marx, senior research fellow1

Author affiliations

  1. Correspondence to: M M Lane m.lane@deakin.edu.au (or @drmelissalane on Twitter/X)
  • Accepted 19 January 2024

Abstract

Objective To evaluate the existing meta-analytic evidence of associations between exposure to ultra-processed foods, as defined by the Nova food classification system, and adverse health outcomes.

Design Systematic umbrella review of existing meta-analyses.

Data sources MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Embase, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, as well as manual searches of reference lists from 2009 to June 2023.

Eligibility criteria for selecting studies Systematic reviews and meta-analyses of cohort, case-control, and/or cross sectional study designs. To evaluate the credibility of evidence, pre-specified evidence classification criteria were applied, graded as convincing (“class I”), highly suggestive (“class II”), suggestive (“class III”), weak (“class IV”), or no evidence (“class V”). The quality of evidence was assessed using the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations) framework, categorised as “high,” “moderate,” “low,” or “very low” quality.

Results The search identified 45 unique pooled analyses, including 13 dose-response associations and 32 non-dose-response associations (n=9 888 373). Overall, direct associations were found between exposure to ultra-processed foods and 32 (71%) health parameters spanning mortality, cancer, and mental, respiratory, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and metabolic health outcomes. Based on the pre-specified evidence classification criteria, convincing evidence (class I) supported direct associations between greater ultra-processed food exposure and higher risks of incident cardiovascular disease related mortality (risk ratio 1.50, 95% confidence interval 1.37 to 1.63; GRADE=very low) and type 2 diabetes (dose-response risk ratio 1.12, 1.11 to 1.13; moderate), as well as higher risks of prevalent anxiety outcomes (odds ratio 1.48, 1.37 to 1.59; low) and combined common mental disorder outcomes (odds ratio 1.53, 1.43 to 1.63; low). Highly suggestive (class II) evidence indicated that greater exposure to ultra-processed foods was directly associated with higher risks of incident all cause mortality (risk ratio 1.21, 1.15 to 1.27; low), heart disease related mortality (hazard ratio 1.66, 1.51 to 1.84; low), type 2 diabetes (odds ratio 1.40, 1.23 to 1.59; very low), and depressive outcomes (hazard ratio 1.22, 1.16 to 1.28; low), together with higher risks of prevalent adverse sleep related outcomes (odds ratio 1.41, 1.24 to 1.61; low), wheezing (risk ratio 1.40, 1.27 to 1.55; low), and obesity (odds ratio 1.55, 1.36 to 1.77; low). Of the remaining 34 pooled analyses, 21 were graded as suggestive or weak strength (class III-IV) and 13 were graded as no evidence (class V). Overall, using the GRADE framework, 22 pooled analyses were rated as low quality, with 19 rated as very low quality and four rated as moderate quality.

Conclusions Greater exposure to ultra-processed food was associated with a higher risk of adverse health outcomes, especially cardiometabolic, common mental disorder, and mortality outcomes. These findings provide a rationale to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of using population based and public health measures to target and reduce dietary exposure to ultra-processed foods for improved human health. They also inform and provide support for urgent mechanistic research.

Systematic review registration PROSPERO CRD42023412732.

Posted in Affective Neuroscience, Aging, dietary, epigenetics | Tagged , , , |

 Facebook and Social Media Anxiety: Navigating Mental Health in the Digital Age

 Facebook and Social Media Anxiety: Navigating Mental Health in the Digital Age

 

In the ever-evolving landscape of digital communication, Facebook and other social media platforms have become integral parts of our daily lives. As of February 2025, these platforms continue to shape how we interact, share information, and perceive the world around us. However, the impact of social media on mental health has become a pressing concern, with numerous studies highlighting the potential negative effects of excessive use on psychological well-being.

 

 The MIT Sloan Study: A Turning Point

 

A groundbreaking study from MIT Sloan School of Management, published in the American Economic Review, provided causal evidence linking Facebook access to a decline in mental health among college students. This research, which has since been widely cited, found that college-wide access to Facebook led to a 7% increase in severe depression and a 20% increase in anxiety disorders. The magnitude of this effect was substantial, estimated to be about 20% of the impact experienced by those who lose their job. This study marked a turning point in our understanding of social media’s psychological effects, prompting further research and public discourse on the topic.

 

 Comprehensive Review: Eight Major Psychological Effects

 

Building on the MIT Sloan findings, a comprehensive review of 232 papers revealed that Facebook use is associated with eight major psychological effects:

 

  1. Perceived anxiety
  2. Depression
  3. Loneliness
  4. Eating disorders
  5. Lowered self-esteem
  6. Reduced life satisfaction
  7. Insomnia
  8. Stress

 

Additionally, physiological effects were noted, including alterations in brain structure and function. These findings underscore the pervasive impact of social media on both mental and physical health.

 

 Mechanisms Behind the Negative Impacts

 

The mechanisms driving these negative impacts are multifaceted and complex:

 

  1. **Social Comparison**: Users frequently engage in unfavorable comparisons with their peers, leading to feelings of inadequacy and low self-worth. The curated nature of social media posts often presents an unrealistic standard of success and happiness.

 

  1. **Fear of Missing Out (FOMO)**: The constant stream of social information can trigger anxiety about being left out or missing experiences. This phenomenon can lead to compulsive checking of social media and feelings of exclusion.

 

  1. **Isolation**: Paradoxically, increased use of social media platforms like Facebook is associated with greater feelings of loneliness. While these platforms are designed to connect people, they can sometimes replace meaningful face-to-face interactions.

 

  1. **Sleep Disruption**: Late-night scrolling and the blue light emitted by devices can interfere with sleep patterns. Poor sleep quality is linked to depression, anxiety, and memory issues.

 

  1. **Addiction-like Behavior**: Excessive use of Facebook can lead to addiction-like symptoms, including mood adjustment issues and withdrawal when not using the platform.

 

  1. **Information Overload**: The constant influx of news, opinions, and updates can overwhelm users, leading to stress and anxiety.

 

  1. **Cyberbullying and Online Harassment**: The anonymity and distance provided by social media can facilitate negative behaviors, impacting victims’ mental health.

 

 Ongoing Concerns in 2025

 

As of 2025, studies continue to show that social media use is linked to increased risks of depression, anxiety, self-harm, and even suicidal thoughts. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated our reliance on digital platforms for social connection, work, and entertainment, potentially exacerbating these issues.

 

 Strategies for Healthier Social Media Use

 

To mitigate the risks associated with social media use, experts recommend several strategies:

 

  1. **Limit Daily Usage**: Set specific time limits for social media use and stick to them. Use built-in screen time tracking tools to monitor your usage.

 

  1. **Prioritize Face-to-Face Interactions**: Make a conscious effort to engage in real-world social activities and conversations.

 

  1. **Practice Mindful Social Media Consumption**: Be aware of how different types of content affect your mood and well-being. Unfollow or mute accounts that consistently trigger negative emotions.

 

  1. **Take Regular Breaks**: Implement “digital detox” periods where you completely disconnect from social media.

 

  1. **Curate Your Feed**: Actively shape your social media experience by following accounts that inspire and uplift you.

 

  1. **Engage in Offline Hobbies**: Develop interests and activities that don’t involve screen time to create a more balanced lifestyle.

 

  1. **Seek Professional Help**: If you’re experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression related to social media use, don’t hesitate to consult a mental health professional.

 

 The Role of Platform Developers

 

As awareness of these issues grows, there’s increasing pressure on social media companies to address the mental health impacts of their platforms. Some positive steps have been taken, such as:

 

– Implementing features that allow users to hide like counts

– Providing tools for managing screen time and setting usage limits

– Offering resources and support for users experiencing mental health issues

 

However, critics argue that more fundamental changes to platform design and algorithms are necessary to truly prioritize user well-being over engagement metrics.

 

 Conclusion

 

As we continue to navigate the digital age, it’s crucial to approach social media use with awareness and intentionality. While platforms like Facebook offer unprecedented opportunities for connection and information sharing, they also present significant challenges to mental health. By understanding these risks and implementing strategies for healthier engagement, we can work towards a more balanced relationship with social media. As research in this field progresses, it’s likely that we’ll see further innovations in both user practices and platform design aimed at promoting digital well-being.

Posted in Affective Neuroscience |

 Amazon and Consumer Psychology: The Mental Health Cost of Instant Gratification

 Amazon and Consumer Psychology: The Mental Health Cost of Instant Gratification

 

Amazon has revolutionized the way we shop, offering unparalleled convenience, vast product options, and lightning-fast delivery. However, beneath its seamless user experience lies a complex interplay between consumer psychology and mental health. While Amazon’s services are designed to minimize friction and maximize satisfaction, they can also contribute to emotional strain, decision fatigue, and compulsive behaviors. This blog post explores the mental health implications of Amazon’s business model and offers strategies for maintaining emotional well-being in the age of instant gratification.

 

 

 The Psychology Behind Amazon’s Success

 

Amazon’s dominance is rooted in its ability to reduce the “pain of paying” and eliminate barriers to purchase. Features like the “Buy Now with 1-Click” button and subscription models such as “Subscribe & Save” are designed to simplify transactions. These innovations tap into the **law of least mental effort**, which suggests that humans naturally gravitate toward choices requiring minimal cognitive energy[1].

 

Additionally, Amazon leverages neuromarketing tactics to trigger emotional responses:

 

– **Scarcity and Urgency**: Limited-time deals on Prime Day create a sense of urgency, activating the fear of missing out (FOMO) and encouraging impulsive purchases[1].

– **Personalization**: Targeted advertising based on browsing history makes products feel tailor-made for consumers, increasing the likelihood of spontaneous buying decisions[7].

– **Frictionless Payment**: Digital transactions reduce the psychological “pain” associated with spending money, making it easier for consumers to overspend[1].

 

While these strategies drive sales, they also have unintended consequences for mental health.

 

 

 How Amazon Impacts Mental Health

 

  1. **Compulsive Buying Behavior**

   The ease of shopping on Amazon can lead to compulsive buying, a behavior linked to anxiety and depression. The dopamine rush from making a purchase may provide temporary relief but can result in guilt or financial stress later on.

 

  1. **Decision Fatigue**

   With millions of products available, choosing what to buy can be overwhelming. This constant decision-making depletes mental energy, leading to stress and reduced self-control in other areas of life.

 

  1. **FOMO and Anxiety**

   Flash sales and countdown timers exploit psychological triggers that heighten anxiety. Consumers may feel pressured to make hasty decisions, fearing they will miss out on a great deal.

 

  1. **Isolation in the Workplace**

   For Amazon employees, particularly warehouse workers, the repetitive nature of tasks and long hours can contribute to feelings of loneliness and emotional exhaustion. Many employees report increased anxiety and depression due to the demanding work environment[2].

 

  1. **Consumer Guilt**

   Overconsumption facilitated by platforms like Amazon often leads to feelings of guilt or regret. This is particularly true for individuals who struggle with financial insecurity but are drawn into impulsive purchases.

 

 

 Amazon’s Efforts to Address Mental Health

 

Recognizing these challenges, Amazon has introduced several initiatives aimed at supporting employee well-being:

 

– **Mental Health Benefits**: U.S.-based employees have access to free counseling sessions, crisis support, and digital self-care tools through programs like Resources for Living[3][4].

– **Self-Guided Wellness Programs**: Employees can use apps offering activities like mindfulness exercises or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) modules tailored to their needs[4].

– **Flexible Support Options**: Counseling is available via phone, video calls, or text messaging, ensuring accessibility for employees across different roles[3][5].

 

These programs demonstrate Amazon’s commitment to fostering a culture that prioritizes mental health. However, critics argue that more systemic changes—such as reducing workplace stressors—are necessary for meaningful impact[2].

 

 

 Strategies for Consumers

 

To mitigate the mental health risks associated with Amazon’s platform while still enjoying its conveniences, consider the following tips:

 

  1. **Set Spending Limits**

   Use budgeting tools or set personal spending caps to avoid overindulgence during sales events like Prime Day.

 

  1. **Practice Mindful Shopping**

   Before making a purchase, ask yourself whether it fulfills a genuine need or is driven by impulse.

 

  1. **Limit Exposure to Deals**

   Turn off notifications for flash sales or unsubscribe from promotional emails that encourage unnecessary spending.

 

  1. **Take Breaks from Online Shopping**

   Designate specific days as “no-shopping days” to break the cycle of compulsive browsing.

 

  1. **Seek Professional Help if Needed**

   If shopping becomes a source of distress or financial hardship, consult a therapist specializing in compulsive behaviors.

 

 

 A Balanced Approach

 

Amazon’s innovations have undeniably improved convenience in modern life but have also introduced new challenges for mental health. By understanding the psychological mechanisms at play and adopting mindful practices, consumers can enjoy the benefits of online shopping without compromising their emotional well-being.

 

For its part, Amazon must continue evolving its mental health initiatives—not just for employees but also for its vast customer base. As technology advances, there is potential for platforms like Amazon to integrate features promoting healthier consumer habits, such as spending alerts or personalized wellness recommendations.

 

In an era where instant gratification reigns supreme, striking a balance between convenience and mindfulness is key to preserving mental health in the digital age.

 

 

Citations:

[1] https://www.popneuro.com/neuromarketing-blog/amazon-prime-day-and-the-psychology-of-pain-consumer-purchases

[2] https://www.reddit.com/r/AmazonFC/comments/px662r/amazon_is_hard_on_my_mental_health/

[3] https://press.aboutamazon.com/2021/5/amazon-introduces-new-mental-health-benefit-for-all-u-s-employees-and-their-family-members

[4] https://aws.amazon.com/careers/life-at-aws-prioritizing-mental-health-and-well-being-at-aws/

[5] https://www.aboutamazon.com/news/workplace/6-new-mental-health-benefits-and-resources-for-amazon-employees

[6] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fgb1LoZmFAE

[7] https://www.cnbc.com/2021/10/29/hooked-psychology-explains-why-you-spend-money-on-amazon-prime.html

Posted in Affective Neuroscience, News |

YouTube and Mental Health: How Video Content Shapes Emotional Well-Being

YouTube and Mental Health: How Video Content Shapes Emotional Well-Being

 

In the digital age, YouTube has become a cornerstone of entertainment, education, and social interaction. With over 2.5 billion monthly active users, it is one of the most influential platforms globally. However, its impact on mental health is a double-edged sword, offering both opportunities for growth and risks of harm. This article explores how YouTube shapes emotional well-being, its benefits, potential pitfalls, and strategies for healthier engagement.

 

 The Positive Side of YouTube

 

YouTube offers an unparalleled repository of content that can serve as a resource for mental health education and emotional support. Many creators specialize in topics like mindfulness, stress management, and self-improvement, providing accessible tools for personal growth. For instance:

 

  1. **Educational Content**: Channels dedicated to psychology and mental health provide viewers with insights into managing anxiety, depression, and other conditions. This democratization of knowledge empowers individuals to take charge of their well-being.

 

  1. **Community Building**: YouTube fosters communities where individuals with shared experiences can connect. For those struggling with loneliness or isolation, these virtual spaces can offer a sense of belonging.

 

  1. **Creative Expression**: Many users find solace in creating content as a form of self-expression or therapy. Sharing stories or artistic works can be cathartic and help build resilience.

 

  1. **Crisis Resources**: Some creators actively promote mental health awareness by sharing resources for suicide prevention or offering guidance during crises.

 

 The Darker Side: Risks to Mental Health

 

Despite its benefits, YouTube poses significant risks to mental health when consumed excessively or without mindfulness:

 

  1. **Parasocial Relationships**: As highlighted by researchers from Griffith University, parasocial relationships—one-sided connections between viewers and creators—can exacerbate loneliness and detachment from real-life interactions[1][5]. Vulnerable users, particularly adolescents, may substitute these virtual bonds for meaningful face-to-face relationships.

 

  1. **Algorithmic Traps**: YouTube’s recommendation algorithms often push users into “rabbit holes” of content that may not align with their well-being. For example, exposure to harmful material such as suicide-related videos can increase emotional distress[1][5].

 

  1. **Screen Time Overload**: Spending more than two hours daily on YouTube has been linked to heightened anxiety and depression[2]. Excessive screen time can disrupt sleep patterns and reduce time spent on physical activity or social interactions.

 

  1. **Comparison Culture**: Watching curated lifestyles of influencers can lead to feelings of inadequacy or low self-esteem among viewers who compare themselves unfavorably.

 

 Balancing YouTube Use for Better Mental Health

 

To harness the positive aspects of YouTube while mitigating its risks, consider the following strategies:

 

  1. **Mindful Consumption**: Set boundaries around screen time to avoid excessive use. Limiting daily consumption to under two hours can significantly reduce psychological risks[2].

 

  1. **Curating Content**: Subscribe to channels that promote mental health awareness or offer educational value. Avoid content that triggers negative emotions or perpetuates harmful stereotypes.

 

  1. **Engage Actively**: Instead of passively consuming videos, engage with content by leaving thoughtful comments or participating in discussions within positive communities.

 

  1. **Parental Guidance**: For younger users, parents should monitor viewing habits and encourage open conversations about online experiences[1].

 

  1. **Seek Professional Help**: If YouTube becomes a source of distress rather than support, consider consulting a mental health professional for guidance.

 

 The Role of Technology in Shaping Mental Health

 

As researchers suggest, there is potential for leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to improve YouTube’s impact on mental health[1]. For example:

 

– **Algorithmic Interventions**: Independent algorithms could steer users toward verified mental health resources rather than harmful content.

– **Digital Tools**: AI-driven chatbots like ChatGPT are already being explored as supplementary tools for emotional support[3][6]. Integrating similar features into platforms like YouTube could provide immediate assistance to vulnerable users.

 

 Conclusion

 

YouTube is a powerful platform capable of influencing mental health in profound ways—both positively and negatively. By understanding its effects and adopting mindful practices, users can maximize its benefits while minimizing risks. As technology evolves, there is hope that platforms like YouTube will become safer spaces for fostering emotional well-being through innovative solutions.

Citations:

[1] https://news.griffith.edu.au/2023/05/15/impacts-of-youtube-on-loneliness-and-mental-health/

[2] https://www.relaxvr.co/blog/the-effects-of-youtube-on-mental-health

[3] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10364280/

[4] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E8gkwkb-26M

[5] https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/988936

[6] https://www.dovepress.com/assessing-the-effectiveness-of-chatgpt-in-delivering-mental-health-sup-peer-reviewed-fulltext-article-JMDH

[7] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4746aL-y5pQ

[8] https://news.griffith.edu.au/2023/10/10/the-impact-of-youtube-on-mental-health/

[9] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F6EaCUaPtMw

Posted in Affective Neuroscience, Fifth Avenue Concierge Medicine, language, Video | Tagged |

Low-dose lithium

Low-dose lithium

Low-dose lithium has emerged as a promising treatment option for various mental health and neurological conditions. This mineral, naturally occurring in food and water supplies, has shown potential benefits when used in doses much lower than those prescribed for bipolar disorder.

Potential Benefits

Cognitive Function and Dementia Prevention

Low-dose lithium has demonstrated neuroprotective effects and may help prevent cognitive decline. Studies have shown that:

– Microdoses of lithium (300 μg daily) stabilized cognitive function in Alzheimer’s patients over 15 months compared to placebo[1][5].

– Low-dose lithium treatment decreased phosphorylated tau in cerebrospinal fluid and improved cognitive function in patients with mild cognitive impairment[1].

 

 Mental Health

Research suggests low-dose lithium may have positive effects on various mental health conditions:

– Depression: Low-dose lithium (300-450 mg) showed benefits as an augmentation strategy for treatment-resistant depression[1].

– Suicidality: Ecological studies have found correlations between higher levels of lithium in groundwater and lower suicide rates[8].

– Irritability and anger: Microdoses of lithium may help reduce irritability and anger in both adults and children[1].

 

 Other Potential Applications

– Substance use disorders: Low-dose lithium (150 mg) improved outcomes in residential addiction treatment programs[1].

– Parkinson’s disease: Early research suggests low-dose lithium may have protective effects against dopamine neuron loss[6].

– Cardiovascular health: Low-dose lithium may stabilize human endothelial barriers and improve cholinergic endothelium-mediated vasorelaxation[17].

 

 Safety and Dosage

Low-dose lithium typically refers to doses that result in serum concentrations ≤0.5 mM, which is below the therapeutic range used for bipolar disorder (0.5-1.2 mM)[5]. These lower doses are generally considered safe and well-tolerated, with fewer side effects compared to higher therapeutic doses[8].

 Current Research and Future Directions

While the potential benefits of low-dose lithium are promising, more research is needed to fully understand its effects and optimal use:

– A phase 1b clinical trial is underway to investigate low-dose lithium for Parkinson’s disease[4].

– Studies are exploring the use of low-dose lithium for long COVID symptoms, though initial results have been mixed[14].

An interesting perspective can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xYsAwEeaYSI 

Related: The rising incidence of early-onset cancer

A developing story?

 

Citations:

[1] https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/view/low-dose-lithium-a-new-frontier-in-mental-health-treatment

[2] https://www.nature.com/articles/s41537-023-00400-w

[3] https://medicine.buffalo.edu/strategic-planning.host.html/content/shared/smbs/news/2023/01/guttuso-lithium-long-covid-16397.detail.html

[4] https://www.vai.org/article/cure-parkinsons-and-van-andel-institute-announce-funding-for-a-phase-1-clinical-trial-of-low-dose-lithium-in-parkinsons-disease/

[5] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10227915/

[6] https://cureparkinsons.org.uk/2024/05/phase-1-clinical-trial-of-lithium-in-parkinsons-set-to-begin/

[7] https://www.psychiatryredefined.org/low-dose-lithium/

[8] https://chandramd.com/low-dose-lithium-supplements/

[9] https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/view/low-dose-lithium-different-important-tool

[10] https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/lithium-oral-route/description/drg-20064603

[11] https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/view/low-dose-lithium-a-new-frontier-in-mental-health-treatment

[12] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34059401/

[13] https://chandramd.com/low-dose-lithium-supplements/

[14] https://www.news-medical.net/news/20241003/Low-dose-lithium-fails-in-long-COVID-trial-but-higher-doses-show-potential.aspx

[15] https://www.nature.com/articles/s41537-023-00400-w

[16] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35236261/

[17] https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/physiology/articles/10.3389/fphys.2016.00593/full

[18] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3151375/

[19] https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/article-abstract/2824334

 

 

Posted in News, Aging, dietary, epigenetics, Fifth Avenue Concierge Medicine, Health, metabolic, new treatments, Psychiatry/Neurology | Tagged , , , , , , , |