The Digester

Ultra-processed foods tied to lower bone density and higher hip fracture risk

Mar 12th 2026

A Tulane-led study of more than 160,000 people in the UK found that higher consumption of ultra-processed foods was associated with lower bone mineral density and a greater risk of hip fracture, with each 3.7 extra daily servings linked to a 10.5% higher hip fracture risk over about 12 years.

  • Tulane University analysis of over 160,000 UK Biobank participants found higher ultra-processed food intake was linked to lower bone mineral density at the upper femur and lumbar spine.
  • The study, published in the British Journal of Nutrition, followed participants for more than 12 years.
  • Participants consumed about eight servings of ultra-processed foods per day on average.
  • Each additional 3.7 daily servings of ultra-processed foods was associated with a 10.5% higher risk of hip fracture.
  • The association was strongest in people under 65 and in those with a body mass index under 18.5.
  • Authors say this is the first direct human study examining ultra-processed food intake and bone health, building on prior research linking these foods to osteoporosis and other health risks.

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