Study Links Ultra-Processed Foods to Higher Heart Attack and Stroke Risk

Consuming more than 9 servings per day increases risk by 67%, according to American College of Cardiology report.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 9:39am

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A new study from the American College of Cardiology found that people who eat more than 9 servings of ultra-processed foods per day have a 67% higher risk of heart attack, stroke, or death from heart disease compared to those who eat just 1 serving per day. The risk increases by over 5% with each additional daily serving, and by over 6% for Black Americans.

Why it matters

Ultra-processed foods like chips, hot dogs, frozen meals, and sugary drinks are staples in many American diets, but this research highlights the significant cardiovascular health risks associated with overconsumption of these foods. The findings underscore the importance of limiting intake of highly processed items and focusing on whole, minimally processed foods.

The details

The study analyzed data from over 6,800 U.S. adults and will be presented at the ACC's Annual Scientific Session. It found that the more ultra-processed foods people consume, the higher their risk of experiencing a heart-related event. These foods are typically high in added sugars, salt, and saturated fats, which can lead to inflammation and other negative health impacts.

  • The study findings will be presented at the ACC's Annual Scientific Session from March 28-30, 2026 in New Orleans.
  • The research is also published in the journal JACC Advances.

The players

American College of Cardiology

A professional medical society and leading authority on cardiovascular health and disease prevention.

Dr. Michele Arthurs

A lifestyle medicine physician with Kaiser Permanente who provided expert commentary on the study findings.

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What they’re saying

“You can see a long list of ingredients, many of which you may not be able to pronounce because they are additives or chemicals that are used for food preservation to increase shelf life.”

— Dr. Michele Arthurs, Lifestyle Medicine Physician, Kaiser Permanente

“Our body, essentially, has to fight with them in order to kind of process them and get them through our system. And this leads to inflammation in the body.”

— Dr. Michele Arthurs, Lifestyle Medicine Physician, Kaiser Permanente

“It doesn't mean you can't have that ballpark hot dog. You can cut it in half and share it with someone.”

— Dr. Michele Arthurs, Lifestyle Medicine Physician, Kaiser Permanente

What’s next

The full study findings will be presented at the American College of Cardiology's Annual Scientific Session in New Orleans from March 28-30, 2026.

The takeaway

This research underscores the significant cardiovascular health risks associated with overconsumption of ultra-processed foods, which are staples in many American diets. By limiting intake of these foods high in added sugars, salt, and saturated fats, and focusing on whole, minimally processed options, individuals can take an important step towards better heart health.