Researchers analyzed data from more than 6,500 U.S. adults who had no history of cardiovascular disease at the start of the study.
Over years of follow-up, they found that people who ate more ultra-processed foods faced a steadily higher risk of developing atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, or ASCVD. This includes heart attacks, strokes, and other serious heart-related events.
The findings, published in JACC Advances, showed a consistent pattern. Each additional daily serving of ultra-processed food was linked to about a 5 percent increase in cardiovascular risk. Those who consumed the highest amounts had a 67 percent greater risk compared to those who ate the least.
Ultra-processed foods include common items like chips, cookies, sugary cereals, soda, packaged baked goods, and processed meats. These products are typically made with refined ingredients, added sugars, unhealthy fats, and chemical additives, while containing little in the way of whole foods.
The study also found notable differences across racial groups. Black participants experienced a stronger increase in risk compared to others. For each additional serving of ultra-processed food, risk rose by about 6.1 percent among Black individuals, compared to roughly 3.2 percent for other groups.
Researchers pointed to possible reasons for this gap, including limited access to fresh foods, higher exposure to low-cost processed options, and chronic stress. They said more research is needed to understand the biological factors involved.”
Across the board, however, the message was clear. Diets high in ultra-processed foods were associated with worse heart health outcomes for all Americans.
The study tracked participants for more than a decade and recorded over 700 cardiovascular events. People who consumed the least ultra-processed food had the highest rates of remaining free from heart disease, while those with the highest intake had the lowest.
Ultra-processed foods are often high in sugar, salt, and saturated fat, all of which are known to contribute to high blood pressure, obesity, and metabolic problems. These foods may also disrupt the gut microbiome and trigger inflammation, which has been tied to heart disease and other chronic illnesses.
Researchers said the study shows an association rather than direct causation, and diet was self-reported.
Health experts continue to recommend diets focused on whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and lean proteins. These patterns, including the Mediterranean and DASH diets, have long been linked to lower rates of heart disease.
At the same time, officials acknowledge that ultra-processed foods remain a major part of the American diet. Many households rely on them because they are affordable, widely available, and convenient.
Experts say the goal is not perfection, but better balance. While the occasional snack is unlikely to cause harm, regularly consuming large amounts of ultra-processed foods may come with serious long-term consequences.
The findings add to growing evidence that cutting back on ultra-processed foods may reduce long-term heart disease risk.