Ultra-Processed Foods Linked to More Fat in Muscles, Osteoarthritis: Study

Research shows that more fat in thigh muscle resulting from a diet high in ultra-processed foods raises knee osteoarthritis risk.

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Ultra-processed foods are associated with more fat stored inside thigh muscles, regardless of caloric intake or physical activity levels, according to a study presented on Dec. 4 at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA).

Scientists at the University of California–San Francisco (UCSF) found that diets heavy in ultra-processed foods, such as chips, cookies, and pre-cooked frozen dinners, are linked to increased fat deposits within thigh muscles, potentially raising the risk of knee osteoarthritis.