Association between ultra-processed food intake, diet quality, and cardiovascular risk factors among adolescents in Antioquia, Colombia

Objective This study aimed to analyze the relationship between ultra-processed food (UPF) intake, diet quality, and cardiovascular risk factors (CRFs) among adolescents in Antioquia, Colombia. Methodology This study is a cross-sectional secondary analysis of adolescents who participated in food and nutritional surveys in Antioquia. The NOVA classification was used to identify the intake of UPF based on 24-h dietary recalls. The analysis focused on the contribution of UPF intake to overall dietary kilocalories, macronutrients, and fiber content. The CRFs included excess body weight, abdominal obesity, and alterations in blood lipid and glucose levels. Statistical analyses included multiple linear regression models, multivariate binary logistic regression, and odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals. Results The analysis focused on 402 adolescents (mean age 14.1 ± 1.9 years). UPF intake accounted for 17.6 ± 1.9% of total dietary kilocalories, with a higher percentage in urban areas (19.0% vs. 9.7%; p = 0.002) and among those in the middle socioeconomic stratum (23.0% vs. 16.6%; p = 0.006). UPF consumption was associated with total kilocalories, total fat and saturated fat intake, and decreased fiber intake ( p < 0.001). Adolescents in the highest quartile of UPF intake showed higher blood glucose levels (3.13 mg/dL; p < 0.05), although no significant associations were found with other CRFs. Conclusion UPF intake was associated with diet quality deterioration and increased blood glucose levels. High UPF intake among adolescents in urban areas of Antioquia, particularly within the middle socioeconomic stratum, poses a potential health risk that warrants further monitoring.