Ultra-processed foods and their relationship with the development of chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in school-aged children and adolescents: An integrative review

Abstract

Introduction: The consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) has been growing significantly among children and adolescents, driven by the industrialization of the food system, the wide availability of these products, and the strong influence of marketing aimed at young audiences. According to the NOVA classification, UPFs are industrial formulations rich in sugars, saturated fats, sodium, and additives, while having low nutritional value. Evidence suggests that early adoption of this dietary pattern is associated with the development of cardiometabolic risk factors and an increased likelihood of Non-Communicable Chronic Diseases (NCDs) throughout life, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and dyslipidemias. Studiesil, studies indicate that these products may account for 20% to 35% of the total daily energy intake of children and adolescents, representing a significant nutritional and social challenge. This scenario is exacerbated by the influence of socioeconomic factors, the school and family food environment, and the reduced consumption of unprocessed foods, which are essential for promoting healthy growth and preventing long-term diseases. Objective: The present study aims to analyze recent scientific evidence on the relationship between the consumption of ultra-processed foods and the development of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) or cardiometabolic risk factors in school-aged children and adolescents, synthesizing the metabolic, nutritional, behavioral, and social impacts associated with this dietary pattern. Methodology: This study is characterized as an integrative literature review, descriptive and exploratory in nature, covering studies published between 2021 and 2025. The searches were conducted in the PubMed, SciELO, and CAPES Journals databases, using descriptors in Portuguese and English: “alimentos ultraprocessados,” “ultra-processed foods,” “children,” “adolescents,” “non-communicable chronic diseases,” and “non-communicable diseases.” Results and discussion: The analyzed studies show a consistent association between higher consumption of UPFs and worse cardiometabolic outcomes. National research indicates that children and adolescents with higher UPF intake have a higher prevalence of overweight, abdominal obesity, increased waist circumference, worse lipid profiles, insulin resistance, and inflammatory changes. Regional studies observed that UPFs make up a significant portion of the diet from the early years of life, reinforcing the early formation of inadequate eating habits. Socioeconomic factors, such as lower income and lower family education, also proved to be important determinants, with higher consumption among vulnerable populations. The included international studies broaden this perspective, showing that an ultraprocessed food pattern is associated not only with the risk of obesity but also with sedentary behaviors and worse psychological well-being. Conclusion: The findings of this review reinforce that frequent consumption of ultraprocessed foods represents an important modifiable risk factor for children and adolescents. Early exposure to these products compromises nutritional status, promotes metabolic changes, and increases the likelihood of future development of non-communicable diseases. In this context, prevention should begin in childhood, involving family, school, and health services, to promote healthier food choices and ensure better quality of life throughout the life cycle.