A new study from the University of Casamassima reveals a connection between what you eat and how quickly you age.
Foods that many consider harmless—like mass-produced bread, fruit yogurt, and meat substitutes—might actually be speeding up the aging process.
The culprit?
Ultra-processed foods, which are packed with additives and preservatives but lack the essential fiber that keeps your body and gut healthy.
The study, reported by the British media Express, analyzed data from over 22,000 participants.
By using blood biomarkers, researchers measured the difference between biological age (how well your body functions) and chronological age (your actual age).
The results were clear: those who consumed large amounts of ultra-processed foods often had a biological age older than their actual age.
Why Does It Matter?
Biological age reflects how well your body and organs are functioning, not just the number of birthdays you've had.
Diets rich in ingredients like maltodextrins or hydrogenated fats—substances rarely found in home cooking—can cause your body to age faster, the researchers warn.
Simona Esposito, lead researcher on the study, explained: “Our data show that high consumption of ultra-processed foods not only negatively impacts overall health but can also accelerate aging itself, indicating a link beyond just poor nutritional quality.”
Next time you reach for fruit yogurt or processed snacks, consider a healthier alternative.
Small changes in your diet can make a big difference in how your body ages—now and in the years to come.
