Ultraprocessed foods linked to fatty muscles and knee health risks

A Radiology study of 615 adults found that higher intake of ultraprocessed foods is associated with more intermuscular fat in the thigh, which can alter how muscles exert force and the knee absorbs stress, potentially increasing the risk of knee osteoarthritis—an effect observed independent of BMI or exercise levels. Reversing this fat buildup likely requires more whole foods and increased physical activity over the long term.