Ultra-Processed Foods Linked to Early Signs of Parkinson’s Disease, Study Finds

A study published in the medical journal Neurology reveals a troubling connection between diets high in ultra-processed foods, such as hot dogs and other processed meats, and the early onset of prodromal symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease.

The research, conducted at Fudan University in Shanghai, followed over 43,000 participants with an average age of 48 for up to 26 years.

Participants who consumed 11 or more servings per day of ultra-processed foods had a 2.5 times higher risk of experiencing three or more early warning signs of Parkinson’s, compared to those who consumed fewer than three servings a day.

The ultra-processed foods examined included:

• Packaged snacks

• Processed meats (e.g., hot dogs, sausages)

• Spreads and sauces

• Desserts and sweetened dairy products

• Sugary and carbonated drinks

The early symptoms tracked in the study included:

• Loss of sense of smell

• Daytime fatigue

• Depression

• REM sleep behavior disorder

• Unexplained bodily pain

• Color vision disturbances

These symptoms are often considered prodromal indicators, meaning they can appear decades before an official Parkinson’s diagnosis.

Dr. Xiang Gao, the study’s lead researcher, explained that the goal was to explore whether diet impacts the appearance of these early signs. “We can’t say definitively that ultra-processed food causes Parkinson’s,” he stated, “but the statistical link is strong and warrants further investigation.” He also suggested that future research could examine whether dietary changes may delay disease progression in individuals already experiencing symptoms.

Other experts urged caution. Dr. Daniel van Wamelen of King’s College London noted that the symptoms studied are not exclusive to Parkinson’s and can also occur in healthy individuals. However, when they appear together and alongside a poor diet, they may serve as an important warning sign.

This research adds to a growing body of evidence showing that the Western industrialized diet, high in processed foods, sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, doesn't just harm the heart and waistline, but also impacts the brain and nervous system.

The researchers recommend prioritizing natural, unprocessed foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and healthy fats- not only for general wellness, but possibly to help preserve cognitive clarity and neurological health over time.