Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Lifestyle
Anna Bawden

Ultra-processed food linked to higher risk of depression, research finds

This is the first large study to suggest that consuming ultra-processed foods and drinks, particularly those with artificial sweeteners, could increase the instance of depression.
This is the first large study to suggest that consuming ultra-processed foods and drinks, particularly those with artificial sweeteners, could increase the instance of depression. Photograph: Catherine Falls Commercial/Getty Images

Consuming large amounts of ultra-processed food, especially drinks containing artificial sweeteners, is associated with a higher risk of depression, research has found.

Despite extensive data linking ultra-processed food with physical ill health, such as strokes, heart attacks and raised blood pressure, this is the first large study to suggest that consuming ultra-processed foods and drinks, particularly those that include artificial sweeteners, could increase the instance of depression.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.