The effect of processed foods on breast density during the first half of the menstrual cycle only happened at medium levels of consumption, not at the highest levels.

Scientific Claim

The study found that the relationship between ultra-processed food consumption and breast density was only significant in the second quartile of consumption (not higher quartiles), suggesting a complex, non-linear relationship rather than a simple dose-response effect.

Original Statement

“girls in Q2 of UPF consumption (as a percentage of grams) had 12% increase in %FGV [Q2 vs. Q1: ß: 0.12; 95% CI 0.01, 0.22] and a 25% increase of AFGV [Q2 vs. Q1: ß: 0.25; 95% CI 0.07, 0.43] than those in Q1 during the follicular phase, however we did not observe differences comparing Q3 and Q4 against Q1.”

From study:Consumption of ultraprocessed foods and breast density in adolescence

Evidence Quality Assessment

Claim Status

appropriately stated

Study Design Support

Design supports claim

Appropriate Language Strength

association

Can only show association/correlation

Assessment Explanation

The claim correctly states 'only observed in the second quartile' and 'suggesting a non-linear relationship' which accurately reflects the study's findings without implying causation. The language appropriately describes the observed pattern.

More Accurate Statement

“The association between ultra-processed food consumption and breast density during the follicular phase was only observed in the second quartile of consumption (not higher quartiles), suggesting a non-linear relationship.”

Evidence from Studies

Supporting (1)

Consumption of ultraprocessed foods and breast density in adolescence

Cohort Study

Human

2025 Nov 10

Contradicting (0)

No contradicting evidence found

Source Study

Consumption of ultraprocessed foods and breast density in adolescence

Score: 58

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-23030-x

Similar Assertions

The effect of processed foods on breast density during the first half of the menstrual cycle only happened at medium levels of consumption, not at the highest levels.

84%

When looking at how much of the total calories came from processed foods (instead of how many grams), there was no consistent link to breast density at any point in the menstrual cycle.

74%

Even after accounting for factors like body weight, exercise habits, smoking, and mother's education level, eating more processed foods didn't consistently change breast density measurements.

73%

When looking at all teenage girls together without considering where they were in their menstrual cycle, eating more processed foods didn't consistently change how dense their breast tissue looked on scans.

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When looking at how much of the total calories came from processed foods (instead of how many grams), there was no consistent link to breast density at any point in the menstrual cycle.

73%