A group of scientists has revealed the alarming results of a study warning about the health risks associated with processed foods and beverages. The study found that consuming a can of soda (330 ml) could shorten a person’s life by 12 minutes, doubling the health risks for those addicted to such drinks and potentially leading to a shorter lifespan. The research also showed that eating hot dogs could shorten life by 36 minutes, while cheese sandwiches reduce it by 9 minutes, and breakfast sandwiches with eggs cut life by 13 minutes.
The study, conducted at the University of Michigan, aimed to assess the impact of highly processed foods, including those with artificial colors and flavors, preservatives, and emulsifiers. The results indicated that these foods could be harmful when consumed in large quantities.
However, the study also highlighted the health benefits of other foods, such as fish, which may add 28 minutes to a person’s life, underscoring the importance of choosing healthy food alternatives to improve lifespan and overall health.
Dr. Olivier Jouliet, the study’s lead researcher, emphasized the need for dietary changes to reduce health risks, noting that replacing harmful foods with healthier options can have a positive impact on both physical and mental well-being. Previous studies have also shown that consuming highly processed foods increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases by 50%, raises the risk of diabetes by 12%, and contributes to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.