Associations Between Ultra-Processed Food Consumption and BMI, Sedentary Time, and Adverse Dietary Habits in Active Young Adults

Abstract

Introduction: Ultra-processed foods (UPF), or packaged foods defined by industrial processing and food additives, are associated with poor nutrient quality of the diet, weight gain, and may impact physical activity levels. Young active populations are understudied with respect to UPF. The purpose of this study is to explore relationships between UPF and BMI, dietary habits, and physical activity in young active adults. Methods: Healthy college students (n=42) completed two 24-hr dietary recalls and physical activity surveys. Data were median split into the top 50th percentile (HIGHUPF) and low 50th percentile (LOWUPF) groups based on UPF intake (%). Independent samples t-tests were used to analyze differences between groups. Results: No significant differences in BMI (kg/m2) were seen between HIGHUPF (25.5) and LOWUPF (23.7) (p=0.055). A significantly higher BMI was seen in HIGHUPF after controlling for physical activity (p=0.04). Compared to LOWUPF, HIGHUPF exhibited lower protein (%) intake (p=0.04), lower fiber intake (p=0.05), higher added sugar (tsp/1000kcal) intake (p=0.05), higher refined grains (oz/1,000kcal) intake (p=0.001), and higher sedentary time (mins/day) (p=0.001). Conclusions: Our results suggest that ≥476 mins/week of recreational physical activity diminishes the relationship between UPF and BMI. Greater UPF intake is associated with greater sedentary time, and adverse dietary makeup.