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Researchers at the University of Toronto analyzed data from 2,077 Canadian three-year-olds, collected between 2011 and 2018 as part of the CHILD Cohort Study. The cohort followed nearly 3,500 families in Vancouver, Edmonton, Winnipeg, and Toronto from before birth into adolescence. The children’s behavioural and emotional well-being was then assessed at age five. 

The study suggests a connection between high consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) in preschoolers and increased behavioural and emotional challenges in early childhood.

The study found that “higher UPF intake at age three years was associated with adverse behavioural and emotional symptoms at age five.”

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The Numbers Behind the Link

For every 10% increase in calories from ultra-processed foods, five-year-olds showed:

44.6% higher instances of internalizing behaviours (e.g., anxiety, fearfulness)

39.6% higher instances of externalizing behaviours (e.g., aggression, hyperactivity)

Overall increase in behavioural difficulties

Nearly half (48%) of Canadian preschoolers’ daily energy intake comes from ultra-processed foods. Despite this, researchers note that there is limited understanding of how these foods influence behavioural and emotional development.

Kozeta Miliku, clinical science officer of the CHILD Cohort Study, described the results as “really alarming,” highlighting the influence of the modern food environment on young children.

What’s Driving Ultra-Processed Food Consumption?

The study identified the main sources of UPFs in children’s diets:

Sweets and desserts: 12.5%

Breads and cereals: 11.9%

Animal-based products: 7.9%

Ready-to-eat or ready-to-heat mixed dishes: 6.1%

High intake of artificially and sugar-sweetened beverages was linked to increased internalising behaviours and overall behaviour scores, but not externalising behaviours. Similarly, higher consumption of breads, cereals, and ready-to-eat meals was associated with higher internalising scores.

Miliku emphasised that these patterns are influenced not only by family habits but also by environmental factors:

“The longer the commute, the higher the chance for children to be fed more ultra-processed food. Access to fresh fruits and vegetables can help lower UPF consumption.”

Theo Moraes, Toronto site director of the CHILD Cohort Study and head of respiratory medicine at SickKids Toronto, added that these dietary and behavioural factors are “intertwined,” and that early-life diet can influence behaviour later in childhood.

Early Intervention Matters

Miliku stressed the importance of healthy eating habits from a young age:

“Early childhood is a sensitive period for brain development. Children are establishing both dietary habits and behavioural patterns, which can track into adolescence and impact long-term mental health.”

Consistent healthy eating can thus support positive mental health outcomes.

Encouraging, Not Blaming Parents

Miliku and Moraes both stressed that these findings are not meant to create guilt among parents.

“It’s not just the family level; broader societal and urban factors also shape children’s diets. A holistic approach is essential,” Miliku said.

Moraes echoed this, noting the importance of framing the research in a supportive, rather than punitive, way:

“We don’t want our findings to create unnecessary pressure or guilt for parents.”

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for personal guidance.