OBESIDAD Y ALIMENTOS PROCESADOS. UN ANÁLISIS DOCUMENTAL

Abstract

The risk of developing obesity associated with the consumption of processed and ultraprocessed foods leads to a multifactorial problem influenced by environmental, biological, psychosocial, socioeconomic, and political factors. The main objective of the review is to analyze the evidence that exists regarding the relationship between obesity and the consumption of ultra-processed foods. To achieve this, a bibliographic review was conducted to link the study variables; primary searches were conducted in databases such as Google Scholar, Elsevier, Eric, PubMed, Scielo, Mendeley, Dialnet, and Latindex, from the periods 2020-2024 by 90%. Among the results found in this review, the need to address the consumption of ultra-processed foods as a determining factor in the increase of obesity prevalence worldwide stands out. The evidence highlights the need to implement effective policies and strategies that promote healthy and balanced eating, as well as public awareness of the risks associated with excessive consumption of these highly processed products. Additionally, it is important to consider the socioeconomic and political factors that influence dietary consumption patterns, in order to develop appropriate and balanced interventions that address disparities in access to nutritious food. Furthermore, emphasis is placed on the need to address the structural and political determinants that perpetuate the availability and promotion of ultra-processed foods, including regulating the advertising of unhealthy foods, promoting sustainable agriculture, and creating healthier food environments.