Physical Wellness · ScienceDaily Nutrition · September 16, 2026

Ultra-processed foods linked to hidden muscle fat that may threaten your knees

Eating more ultra-processed foods was linked to greater fat buildup inside thigh muscles, according to MRI scans of 615 adults at risk for knee osteoarthritis. Surprisingly, the association remained even after researchers accounted for calorie intake, physical activity, and other factors. Fatty changes in these muscles may weaken support around the knee and potentially increase osteoarthritis risk

Originally published by ScienceDaily Nutrition. We curate and add context; they did the reporting.

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