Eating chips, sugary drinks, and instant noodles might seem like a quick way to feel happy, but doctors in the UAE are warning that ultra-processed foods (UPFs) could be quietly harming both your body and mind. These foods are made in factories and contain artificial colors, preservatives, unhealthy fats, and added sugars. Although they may be designed to taste delicious and last longer, they provide little nutritional value.
In recent discussions with the Khaleej Times, health experts highlighted the growing trend of people consuming more processed foods and experiencing related mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders.
Dr. Mohammed Zaki, a dietitian based in Abu Dhabi, explained that UPFs are industrially manufactured and preserved with artificial compounds, making them less safe for human health. He warned that such foods could lead to cognitive decline, impair executive brain functions, and even increase the risk of stroke. 
What’s happening in the brain when consuming these foods? Dr. Mohammad Wafeek Eid, a psychiatrist at Medcare Hospital in Dubai, revealed that UPFs could cause inflammation in the brain and disrupt the gut-brain connection, which affects mood and emotions. These foods cause the brain to release excess dopamine, a pleasure-linked chemical, which could eventually reduce enjoyment from everyday activities. This imbalance might lead to compulsive eating and a decrease in overall mood.
Additionally, the gut plays a key role in mental health. UPFs can disturb the bacteria in the gut, reducing levels of mood-regulating chemicals like serotonin and GABA, both linked to depression and anxiety.
Recent studies have found a strong correlation between the overconsumption of UPFs and various health issues, including depression, obesity, diabetes, memory loss, and even cancer. Some of the harmful chemicals found in these foods include propyl gallate, artificial flavorings, and chemicals from packaging such as BPA, all of which may contribute to long-term health complications.
However, experts say the good news is that it’s possible to reverse the negative effects by making simple changes to your diet. Dr. Zaki mentioned that people who shift to a diet of natural foods often experience improvements in both mental and physical health within weeks.
Dietitian Reshma Devjani from Fakeeh University Hospital in Dubai emphasized that people with busy lifestyles, like office workers, frequent travelers, and parents, are more likely to rely on processed foods due to convenience. But consistently consuming them over time can damage health and increase the risk of mental health problems.
So, what are the healthier alternatives? Experts suggest incorporating more fresh fruits and vegetables, home-cooked meals, nuts, seeds, and lean proteins like meat, eggs, and beans into your diet. Drinking water instead of sugary soft drinks is also a crucial change. Dr. Zaki advised that healthy cooking methods can make preparing meals enjoyable, especially for children.
Dr. Zaki also recommended taking a gradual approach. Instead of eliminating processed foods, reducing their consumption little by little can significantly protect both mental well-being and overall health.
