Adolescent Health

Ultra-processed foods tied to overeating in late adolescents, Virginia Tech study finds

December 10, 2025 Iniulat ng AI Larawang ginawa ng AI Fact checked

A Virginia Tech study finds that ultra-processed diets may prompt 18- to 21-year-olds to eat more and snack when they are not hungry, while slightly older young adults do not show the same pattern. After two weeks on an ultra-processed diet, younger participants consumed more at a buffet meal and were more likely to keep eating despite reporting no hunger, suggesting a period of heightened vulnerability in late adolescence.