Ultra-processed foods linked to increased risk of Crohn's disease
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Higher consumption of ultra-processed foods has been linked to an increased risk of developing Crohn’s disease. Packaged snacks, sugary beverages, processed meats, and ready-to-eat meals, often contain additives, emulsifiers, and refined ingredients that may disrupt gut microbiota and intestinal barrier function. Emerging epidemiologic evidence suggests that frequent intake of these foods correlates with greater incidence of Crohn’s disease, potentially through chronic intestinal inflammation and microbiome dysregulation. These findings highlight the importance of limiting ultra-processed foods in favor of whole, minimally processed alternatives.
Source
Choi, S. Y., & Moon, W. (2025). Ultra-Processed Foods and Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Narrative Review of Epidemiology, Mechanisms, and Dietary Implications. Nutrients, 17(24), 3852. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17243852
Additional Reading
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/ultra-processed-foods-and-crohns-disease-link