About The Study: In this cohort study of preschoolers in Canada, higher ultraprocessed foods (UPF) intake was associated with adverse behavioral and emotional symptoms by age 5. These findings suggest that replacing UPF with minimally processed foods (MPF) during the preschool years may support healthier behavioral development, with potential benefits for long-term mental health. These findings also support ongoing policy actions that promote MPF and underscore the need for early-life dietary interventions.
Corresponding Author: To contact the corresponding author, Kozeta Miliku, MD, PhD, email kozeta.miliku@utoronto.ca .
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(doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2026.0434)
Editor’s Note: Please see the article for additional information, including other authors, author contributions and affiliations, conflict of interest and financial disclosures, and funding and support.
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