Ultraprocessed Food Intake, Cognition, and Executive Function in Adults: A Systematic Review

Introduction: This systematic review examines the association between ultraprocessed food (UPF) intake and cognitive and executive function in adults. Given the global rise in overweight and obesity and the increasing consumption of UPFs, understanding their potential impact on brain health is of growing importance. Method: A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, EBSCO, and Scopus databases following PRISMA guidelines. Fourteen studies met inclusion criteria, encompassing cross-sectional, longitudinal, and experimental designs. Risk of bias was assessed using the National Institutes of Health Quality Assessment Tool. Results: The majority of studies (78.5%) reported a significant association between higher UPF consumption and poorer cognitive outcomes, including deficits in memory, executive function, and global cognition. Longitudinal studies consistently demonstrated that increased UPF intake is linked to accelerated cognitive decline and a higher risk of mild cognitive impairment and dementia, particularly in middle-aged and older adults. In contrast, cross-sectional findings were more heterogeneous, and evidence in younger populations remains limited and inconclusive. Conclusions: Overall, the findings suggest that high UPF consumption may be a modifiable risk factor for cognitive decline. However, methodological variability and the predominance of observational studies highlight the need for further longitudinal and experimental research to clarify causal mechanisms.