Ultra-Processed Foods Worsen Depression-Diabetes Link.

In 2025, Yunxiang Sun and team from Johns Hopkins and Brazilian universities analyzed survey data from over 87,000 adults in Brazil. They used self-reports on diabetes, depression, and diet (via food frequency questionnaires) to check how ultra-processed food intake affects the depression-diabetes connection, running stats adjusted for age, income, and more.

High ultra-processed food eaters had a stronger link between depression and diabetes, with young adults showing up to 6.7 times higher odds. Overall, diabetes hit 8.7%, depression 9.8%, and high UPF was common (69% ate lots weekly).

Cut back on ultra-processed foods like chips and sodas to lower risks of depression and diabetes.