Ultra-Processed Foods Ultra-Processed Foods (UPFs), rich in sugar, salt, refined carbs and fats, are engineered to stimulate the brain's reward pathways–similar to nicotine and other addictive substances. Their design triggers dopamine release, creating cravings and compulsive eating behaviours independent of hunger. Studies, including one in Nature Medicine (2025), show that UPFs induce dependence-like patterns found in drug addiction, with an...
