Hot dogs, soda – and a hidden risk According to a study conducted by leading US doctors, Dr. Erica Loftfield, who is a Stadtman Investigator at the National Cancer Institute (NCI), has specifically said that highly processed meats – such as hot dogs, sausages and meats – increase mortality rates the most and the study has found that highly processed foods are enough to challenge premature death.
A research conducted on more than 540,000 Americans for about 30 years found that, people who consume highly processed food, hot dogs, soda every day have been warned that people who eat a diet rich in highly processed foods, this food may shorten their life.
Researchers found that people who ate the most processed foods and beverages every day — think packaged snacks, soda, cold beverages, deli meats and frozen meals — had a 10% higher risk of dying, especially from heart disease, diabetes and other lifestyle-related diseases. The findings come from the NIH-AARP Diet and Health Study, the most comprehensive nutrition research project ever conducted in the United States.
Ultra-processed foods may contain additives, preservatives, artificial colors or sweeteners. According to the study, these foods not only lack essential nutrients, but also contain harmful substances and increase the risk of death.
The hard truth: Food choices matter “Our findings support growing evidence that ultra-processed foods are not only low in nutrients — they may actively harm your long-term health and lifespan,” explained Dr. Erica Loftfield, lead investigator at the National Cancer Institute. Interestingly, the researchers found higher death rates from heart disease and diabetes, but they found no strong association with cancer deaths.
What are the most dangerous food categories? Sweetened beverages and processed meats such as hot dogs, sausage and deli slices topped the list. Beyond calories: It’s not just about weight What’s particularly striking is that people with “healthy” body weights or those following government dietary guidelines were no exception. The risk remained stable regardless of a person’s BMI or overall diet quality.
Tips to reduce the risk:
• Stop eating processed foods
• Stop eating packaged food from today
• Cook meals at home using fresh ingredients
You don’t have to give up everything overnight but reducing your intake of processed foods like soda, chips and deli meats can help you live a longer and healthier life.
