Credit Radiological Society of North Aurora (RSNA) and Zehra Akkaya, M.D.

A new study has found that eating a diet high in ultra-processed foods can store more fat in your thigh muscles, which could increase the risk of knee osteoarthritis. This is true regardless of how many calories you consume or how much you exercise.

What Are Ultra-Processed Foods? These are foods that have been heavily modified with artificial ingredients. Think breakfast cereals, soft drinks, frozen pizzas, packaged snacks, and ready-to-eat meals. They usually contain a mix of sugar, fat, salt, and carbohydrates, making them hard to resist but not great for your health.

The Study Researchers examined data from 666 people who participated in the Osteoarthritis Initiative. They found that people who ate more ultra-processed foods had higher fat in their thigh muscles. This happened even if they didn’t consume more calories or exercise less than others.

Why It Matters More fat in your thigh muscles can lead to knee problems, including osteoarthritis. Dr. Zehra Akkaya from the University of California, San Francisco, said this is the first study to use MRI to show the link between diet quality and muscle health.

Takeaway Cut down on ultra-processed foods to protect your muscles and joints. A healthier diet and regular exercise are key to preventing obesity and reducing the risk of knee osteoarthritis. This study highlights how important it is to consider what you’re eating, not just how much.Message Copilot