A new series of studies in Brain Medicine reveals a concerning link between mental health issues and microplastics found in ultra-processed foods (UPFs) like soda, snacks, ready-made meals, and processed meats. While UPFs are already tied to higher risks of depression, anxiety, and poor sleep, researchers are now investigating microplastics as a potential factor. These foods are more prone to contamination due to their packaging and processing — with chicken nuggets, for instance, containing 30 times more microplastics than chicken breast. Experts warn that UPFs account for over half of daily calorie intake in countries like the US, and microplastics from these foods can cross the blood-brain barrier and accumulate in the brain — raising serious health concerns. #news #health #wellness #junkfood #coke #mentalhealth #science