A diet rich in ultra-processed foods could lead to underdeveloped jaws, crooked teeth, and other health issues in children, experts reveal.

Experts have raised concerns over the alarming impact of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) on children’s health, warning that such diets could result in misaligned teeth, jaw shrinkage, and even respiratory problems.

In a recent study conducted by the Catholic University of Valencia, researchers tracked the diets, dental health, and skull shapes of 25 young children aged three to five. The findings revealed that children consuming primarily soft, ultra-processed foods—such as crisps, sweets, and white bread—were more likely to develop buck teeth and lack the natural gaps necessary for proper dental alignment.

Dr. Laura Marques Martinez, a pediatric dentistry expert and co-author of the study, explained that chewing solid and fibrous foods is crucial for stimulating bone growth and ensuring proper jaw development. This natural exercise of the jaw muscles helps prevent malocclusion (misalignment of teeth) and promotes healthy dental arches. In contrast, diets high in soft, processed foods fail to adequately stimulate the jaw, leading to underdeveloped bone structures and increasing the risk of dental issues.

Professor Tim Spector, a renowned British diet expert, pointed out that the epidemic of jaw shrinkage has been accelerating in recent decades, contributing to a sharp rise in orthodontic issues such as crooked teeth. He noted that more children than ever are requiring braces, a troubling trend linked to poor dietary habits.

UPFs have long been associated with life-threatening illnesses, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. However, for children, the risks also extend to dental health, with the soft foods often found in processed diets causing significant harm to developing facial structures.

The rise in diet-related diseases has placed an enormous strain on the UK’s healthcare system, with an estimated £268 billion spent annually on treating conditions linked to unhealthy diets. The burden includes costs related to the NHS, welfare services, and social care, with a significant portion allocated to managing the consequences of poor nutrition.

In addition to these findings, a study conducted by researchers at Harvard University showed a direct link between UPF consumption and a higher risk of death, especially for those consuming high amounts of processed meats and ready-made foods. This diet increased the risk of premature death by 13%, further underscoring the dangers of ultra-processed foods.

The growing evidence highlights the urgent need for a shift in dietary habits, particularly for young children, to avoid the long-term health consequences of ultra-processed foods.