Scientists from the University of California, San Francisco have discovered that regular consumption of sausages, factory-made sweets, and energy drinks contributes to fat accumulation in thigh muscles and reduces the quality of muscle tissue. The findings of the study were published in the journal Radiology.
Diet plays a significant role in muscle health, yet most previous research has focused on the benefits of specific nutrients, such as protein. In contrast, the potential harm of unhealthy food to muscle tissue has been studied far less frequently.
To address this gap, the researchers analyzed data from 615 individuals at elevated risk of knee osteoarthritis. Using magnetic resonance imaging, the scientists measured fat levels in the thigh muscles and compared these indicators with the participants’ dietary habits.
The results showed that individuals who regularly consumed ultra-processed foods had significantly higher levels of fat infiltration in their muscles. This association remained consistent regardless of total calorie intake, fat consumption, physical activity levels, or the socioeconomic status of the participants.
Ultra-processed foods include items such as frozen pizza, ready-made meals, sugary breakfast cereals, packaged snacks, sausage products, confectionery, as well as carbonated and energy drinks. These products often contain high amounts of additives, artificial flavors, and colorings.
According to study leader Zehra Akkaya, the past few decades have seen a decline in the proportion of natural foods in people’s diets, coinciding with a rise in the prevalence of obesity and osteoarthritis. Previously, vegetables that help slow age-related muscle loss were also identified.
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