The Silent Architect of Anxiety: How Ultra-Processed Foods Are Rewiring Your Brain and Body

One of the most deceptive features of these foods is their high caloric density paired with near-zero nutritional value. These products interfere with the body's leptin and ghrelin signaling, meaning the brain does not accurately receive "fullness" signals. Consequently, individuals may suffer from "hidden hunger"—a state where the body is technically overweight but starving for essential vitamins and minerals. This paradox is one of the greatest health challenges of the current decade.