FATORES DETERMINANTES PARA O AUMENTO DO CONSUMO DE ALIMENTOS ULTRAPROCESSADOS E OS IMPACTOS CAUSADOS NA SAÚDE DA POPULAÇÃO

The population’s dietary patterns have changed over time, driven by population growth, advances in food production, and greater availability of industrialized products. These factors have contributed to a significant increase in the consumption of ultra-processed foods, combined with lower levels of physical activity, directly impacting eating habits. Ultra-processed foods undergo intensive industrial processes, contain artificial additives, and, despite offering better taste and longer shelf life, are rich in sugars, fats, and sodium, which have been linked to the rise of chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. In this context, the present article analyzes how current lifestyles and the excessive consumption of these products affect health, highlighting the importance of raising public awareness, encouraging the consumption of natural and minimally processed foods, and developing effective public policies.