Ultra-processed foods, drinks linked to higher colorectal cancer risk: study

A diet high in ultra-processed foods and drinks was linked to an increased risk of colorectal cancer, according to a study conducted in Spain. There was no increased risk for prostate cancer, but breast cancer patients who smoke, or used to smoke, saw a higher risk. 

The questionnaire assessed how often participants consumed ultra-processed foods and drinks over a one-year period. The team then used the Nova classification system, which divides foods into four categories, from unprocessed foods to processed ingredients, and beyond to processed foods and ultra-processed foods and drinks. Examples of ultra-processed products would include "sugary soft drinks, ready meals and mass-produced industrial baked goods," a related release from ISGlobal notes.