Association between ultraprocessed foods consumption, eating disorders, food addiction and body image: a systematic review
Abstract
Objective This study aimed to assess the association between ultraprocessed foods (UPF) consumption, eating disorders (EDs), food addiction and body image concerns. Design Systematic review following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Data sources Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, EMBASE, LILACS and APA PsycInfo databases, for studies published between 2009 and July 2024. Eligibility criteria We included cross-sectional and cohort studies involving individuals of all ages, evaluating the association between UPF consumption, classified by the ‘NOVA system’, EDs, food addiction and body image. No restrictions were placed on diagnostic criteria, age and gender. Studies that modelled UPF consumption as both an exposure and an outcome were included. Data extraction and synthesis Data extraction and quality assessment were performed by two independent reviewers. Methodological quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal checklist. Results We did not identify any longitudinal studies. Nine cross-sectional studies were included (n=54 367 participants). One study assessed EDs types, including restrictive, bulimic, binge eating and other (not otherwise specified); three studies examined body dissatisfaction, while five studies investigated food addiction. The consumption of UPF was significantly associated with bulimic, binge eating and other ED and food addiction. No significant associations were identified…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a systematic review, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 54 participants or records.
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