Association of ultra-processed foods with phenotypic age acceleration in US adults: a mediation analysis of body mass index in the NHANES.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The rising intake of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) has been linked to adverse health outcomes, yet its impact on aging acceleration remains unclear.

Objective

This study aimed to examine the association between the percentage of total daily calories (%Kcal) and grams (%Gram) from UPFs and phenotypic age acceleration (PhenoAgeAccel).

Methods

Data from 12,079 adults in the NHANES 2005-2010 cycles were analyzed. The relationship between UPFs intake and PhenoAgeAccel was assessed using multivariable linear regression and restricted cubic splines, with adjustments for relevant covariates. The mediating role of body mass index (BMI) was also explored.

Results

A significant positive linear association was observed between UPFs intake (%Gram) and PhenoAgeAcce

SUBMITTER: Kong W 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11973088 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature