Snacks may be linked to thigh muscle fat and knee arthritis

A study published in Radiology reported an association between higher intake of ultraprocessed snacks and greater fat inside thigh muscles, and the authors said the findings show correlation rather than proof of causation.

New research reported an association between higher consumption of ultraprocessed foods and increased fat within thigh muscles, a factor linked to knee osteoarthritis. The study examined MRI scans alongside self-reported diets in people who did not yet have diagnosed osteoarthritis. Authors at the University of California, San Francisco noted the findings show correlation and described several study limitations, including reliance on reported diets and a sample already at elevated knee risk. Key findings: - The researchers analyzed 615 participants from the Osteoarthritis Initiative who did not have osteoarthritis. - Non-enhanced MRI scans showed greater intramuscular fat in thighs among people reporting higher ultraprocessed food intake. - Participants on average consumed about 41% of daily food from ultraprocessed sources. - The association persisted after accounting for total calories, body weight and reported physical activity. - Study authors emphasized the results show association, not proven causation. - Limitations noted include self-reported diet data and focus on a higher-risk group for knee problems. Summary: The study links higher ultraprocessed food intake with greater thigh intramuscular fat, a factor that has been associated with knee osteoarthritis risk. Undetermined at this time.