A new study suggests that consuming around a dozen servings of ultraprocessed foods daily may more than double the likelihood of showing early signs of Parkinson&rsquos disease. Researchers analyzed data from nearly 43,000 participants over 26 years, noting that those who consumed more ultraprocessed foods were 2.5 times more likely to exhibit at least three prodromal symptoms &mdash such as body pain, depression, constipation, and changes in sleep, smell, or vision.

Ultraprocessed foods include sugar-sweetened and diet sodas, packaged snacks, desserts, sauces, and savory items like hot dogs and chips. These foods typically lack fiber, protein, and key nutrients, while being high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats. Researchers believe these nutritional imbalances, along with additives, may promote inflammation, oxidative stress, and neuronal damage, potentially increasing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.Eating fewer processed foods and more whole, nutritious foods may be a good strategy for maintaining brain health.

While the study did not prove that ultraprocessed food directly causes Parkinson&rsquos, the strong association with early symptoms adds to growing evidence linking diet and brain health. According to Dr. Xiang Gao from Fudan University, prevention may start at the dinner table. However, as the study relied on self-reported dietary data and didn&rsquot track actual Parkinson&rsquos diagnoses, further research is needed.

An accompanying editorial emphasized the public health implications, noting that ultraprocessed food consumption not only contributes to metabolic disorders but may also accelerate neurological decline. Real-life examples such as REM sleep behavior disorder &mdash where the body moves during dreaming &mdash are highlighted as early warning signs.

Cutting back on ultraprocessed foods and improving dietary quality may be a powerful strategy to reduce future Parkinson&rsquos risk and protect long-term brain health.