🦴 Ultraprocessed foods do what?

Now they're coming for your bones, too.

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Today’s Ingredients The case against ultra-processed foods (UPFs) is pretty well established — heart disease, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and even some cancers. But new research suggests there’s another risk to add to the list: weaker bones. A large study links higher UPF consumption to lower bone mineral density and a greater risk of hip fractures, and not just in older adults. Below, we break down what the research found, why it matters even if you’re under 65, and what dietitians say you can do about it, without changing your entire diet.   • Food to enjoy: Banana coconut quinoa porridge   • News to know: Eating the same meals every day could help you lose more weight   • Tips to live well: How to find a workout you’ll actually stick with Let’s look into it, Tim Snaith Newsletter Editor, Healthline   Written by Tim Snaith April 7, 2026 • 3 min read FRESH FINDINGS New research says yes, and the numbers are hard to ignore. A study published in The British Journal of Nutrition followed over 160,000 adults for 12 years and found that higher intake of ultra-processed foods (UPF) was associated with lower bone mineral density at the hip and spine. For every 3.7 extra daily servings — roughly a frozen dinner, a soda, and a cookie — the risk of hip fracture rose by 10.5%. What counts as ultra-processed? These are foods manufactured on an industrial scale that are typically high in sweeteners, salt, and unhealthy fats, and low in fiber and minerals. Think store-bought ready meals, breakfast cereals, sweetened drinks, and packaged snacks. They make up roughly 55% of total calories consumed by U.S. adults. And this isn’t just a concern among older adults. The link to bone health was strongest in people under 65, possibly because younger digestive systems absorb more of the less-healthy stuff in UPFs. People who are underweight are also at greater risk. Why it happens: UPFs tend to crowd out the nutrients bones need most, such as calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, and protein, while increasing inflammation, which can weaken bones over time. Dietitian Theresa Gentile advises focusing on what you can add to your diet rather than what you can take away. Toss an egg and veggies into instant ramen. Stir fruit, nuts, and chia seed into instant oatmeal. Add a side salad to frozen pizza. Small upgrades like these boost the nutritional value of convenience meals without having to ditch them entirely. Add regular resistance exercise, and your bones will thank you. Want to learn more about food, diets, cooking, or some other nutrition subject? Let us know at nutritionedition@healthline.com, and we’ll look into it for you! (Heads-up: We may use your response in an upcoming newsletter.) GET THE RECIPE RECIPE PICK Chopped Rainbow Salad with Multi-Greens A quick, keto-friendly salad with peppers, cucumbers, and more. GET THE RECIPE → YES, CHEF Tilapia with Cucumber-Dill Quinoa Salad Tilapia with Cucumber-Dill Quinoa Salad is a light and refreshing meal that's perfect for any time of year. It's a balanced, nutritious, and flavorful combination that’s easy to prepare and full of vibrant textures. Tilapia with Cucumber-Dill Quinoa Salad is a light and refreshing meal that's perfect for any time of year. It's a balanced, nutritious, and flavorful combination that’s easy to prepare and full of vibrant textures.   START COOKING the takeout What we’re digesting 🧬 Monoclonal antibodies for IBD. A closer look at how targeted biologics treat Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis. 🧴 What’s making my eczema worse? The everyday habits a dermatologist says are keeping your flare-ups going. 💪 Most effective testosterone booster supplements. Our dietitians sort the hype from the evidence. 🦠 Best probiotics for women. 9 dietitian-tested picks for gut, vaginal, and immune health. follow us on instagram Until next time, Take care of yourself, and we’ll see you again soon!   This edition was powered by Earl Grey tea and a hot cross bun.️

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