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A new study published in Addiction reveals that older US adults, particularly women, are showing significantly higher rates of ultraprocessed food addiction (UPFA) compared to previous generations.
While UPFA isn't an official diagnosis, researchers used the Yale Food Addiction Scale 2.0 to apply the substance‑use disorder criteria in determining excessive UPF intake. Those criteria include craving, loss of control, and continued use despite known harm.
Of 2038 survey participants, researchers found the overall prevalence of UPFA was 12.4%, with women aged 50-64 showing the highest rates at 21%. This age group entered adolescence as UPFs were gaining momentum in the marketplace, and the researchers note that these higher UPFA rates are consistent with known effects of exposure to addictive substances at a younger age.
Women with poorer physical health and mental health status were also more likely to meet the criteria for UPFA than those without.
UPFs are manufactured with a combination of refined carbs, fats, and flavors designed to trigger the brain’s reward system, leading to increased consumption. The “bliss point” achieved from these foods offers quick relief from mental health distress, but the subsequent crash can worsen mood and create a vicious cycle.
Clinicians are encouraged to talk with patients about their processed food choices and to discuss nutritious alternatives that can improve physical and mental health.
This content was created using several editorial tools, including AI, as part of the process. Human editors reviewed this content before publication.
