Intake of ultra-processed foods and sleep-related outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis

The aim of this review article was to evaluate the association between the intake of ultra-processed foods and sleep-related outcomes through a systematic review and meta-analysis. Pubmed, LILACS, Scielo, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science were searched on December 31, 2021, for studies that evaluated the association between ultra-processed foods and sleep-related outcomes (self-reported sleep duration and quality). Pooled odds ratios were assessed through a random-effects model; hetero-geneity was evaluated using the I2 statistic. Fifteen cross-sectional studies were included; 14 showed that the high intake of ultra-processed foods was statistically significantly associated with sleep-related outcomes (sleep duration and quality). In the crude analysis, compared with low intake, high intake of ultra-processed foods increased the odds of sleep-related outcomes, with increased odds among chil-dren and/or adolescents, and null results among adults. When adjusted for cofounders, we found sta-tistically significant results for all ages. The high intake of ultra-processed foods was associated with sleep-related outcomes, with moderate credibility of the evidence. Longitudinal studies and clinical tri-als confirming these findings are necessary. (c) 2022 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

The aim of this review article was to assess the association between the intake of ultra-processed foods and sleep-related outcomes. Fifteen cross-sectional studies were included, and the majority showed a significant association between high intake of ultra-processed foods and sleep-related outcomes. The findings suggest a moderate credibility of the evidence, and further longitudinal studies and clinical trials are needed to confirm the results.