Teen Health in the News: Kids and teens get majority of calories from ultraprocessed foods
- Cassandra Padgett
- Aug 12
- 2 min read
A recent report was released by the CDC about ultraprocessed food (UPF) consumption in the US and alarmingly, about 62% of teens’ calories come from UPFs (CDC, 2025). Understanding what that means and how to make small, sustainable tweaks can support your family's long-term health.
What Are Ultraprocessed Foods (UPFs)?
Ultra-processed foods are industrially formulated products—think fast food, packaged snacks, soda, sports drinks, and sugary baked goods. They’re often made with refined ingredients, artificial additives, extra sugar, unhealthy fats, and not much else in terms of nutrition (CDC).
How Much Are Teens Actually Eating?
What Kinds of UPFs Are Kids Eating?
The biggest contributors? Staples like fast-food sandwiches (including burgers), sweet bakery items, savory snacks, pizza, and sweetened drinks like soda, chocolate milk, coffee drinks, etc. These are often quick, easy, and tasty—but not very nutrient-rich.
Why This Matters
UPFs are typically energy-dense, low in fiber, and often high in salt, added sugars, and unhealthy fats. Regularly consuming them has been linked to increased risks of obesity, heart disease, and even elevated risk of early mortality (CDC).
What Can Parents Do?
Here are five steps to help reduce reliance on ultra-processed foods:
Stock the Kitchen with Whole Foods. Offer fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, legumes, and dairy. Having nutritious options within easy reach makes it more likely kids will choose them.
Swap, Instead of Remove. Replace sweet bakery snacks with whole fruit or oatmeal cookies sweetened with dates. Instead of soda, try sparkling water with fruit slices.
Make UPFs Less Convenient. If sweet snacks are out of sight, they’re often out of mind. Keep healthier snacks like pre-cut fruit or nuts front and center.
Cook Together When You Can. Involving teens in preparing simple meals—like homemade wraps, soups, or stir-fries—builds skills and makes whole foods more appealing.
Start Small and Build Momentum. Reducing UPFs doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Pick one category—like drinks or snack replacements—and begin there.
Ultra-processed foods make up a big portion of teens’ diets, but with awareness and small changes, families can shift toward more nourishing choices. Remember every swap counts. Need help supporting your family in healthier habits? Join Namio Health at www.namiohealth.com.parents and follow Namio on social media @namiohealth.
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