Ultra-Processed Food Intake Is Associated With Increased Carotid Artery Atherosclerotic Plaque

Background: Ultra-processed foods have been linked to adverse health outcomes with an increase in cardiovascular events. The mechanism by which this occurs is a subject of interest. One possible route is via increased atherosclerosis. Objective: To evaluate the effect of ultra-processed foods on carotid plaque characteristics on MRI, with the theory that higher intake would be associated with a greater plaque burden. Design: Prospective, population-based cohort study (Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities [ARIC] study). Participants/Methods: A total of 768 patients were included from the ARIC study who also underwent Carotid MRI study visit in 2004 to 2005. Patients with incomplete food questionnaires, lack of MRI, or known cardiovascular disease were excluded. Food intake items on the questionnaire were grouped into categories, with ultra-processed foods 1 of these 4. Ultra-processed foods were subdivided into 10 subgroups, such as cereals, fried foods, ultra-processed drinks, etc. Al more...