‘Big Shocker’ for Men packaged foods linked to hormone disruption for men
A recent study suggests that diets high in ultraprocessed foods may negatively impact not only metabolic health but also male reproductive function.
Researchers from the University of Copenhagen studied 43 healthy men aged 20 to 35, feeding them two different diets in alternating three-week phases: one high in ultraprocessed foods and another based on mostly unprocessed ingredients. There was a three-month break between the diet phases, and all meals were provided to ensure equal calorie, protein, fat, and carbohydrate intake.
Despite matching calorie content, participants gained about three pounds and showed increased body fat during the ultraprocessed phase. They also experienced a drop in follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which plays a key role in sperm production. There were also trends toward lower testosterone levels and reduced sperm motility.
In addition, the ultraprocessed diet was linked to increased levels of cxMINP, a chemical commonly found in plastics (a type of phthalate), which researchers believe may contribute to the hormonal disruptions.
“Calories from ultraprocessed foods don’t affect the body the same way as those from minimally processed foods,” said study co-author Romain Barres.
Interestingly, men on the unprocessed diet had higher levels of lithium, a mineral that supports mood stability. However, they also had slightly increased levels of mercury and PFAS chemicals—possibly from seafood and cookware.
Ultraprocessed foods—such as chips, sugary cereals, packaged snacks, and soft drinks—now make up more than half of the daily calorie intake for Americans. These products are typically low in fiber, high in additives, and engineered for long shelf life and low cost, but they offer little nutritional value.
Nutrition expert Marion Nestle, who was not involved in the research, called the fertility findings “a big shocker,” though she noted the study’s short duration and individual variability. Co-author Jessica Preston emphasized that the study shows ultraprocessed foods can damage both metabolic and reproductive health—even when not consumed in excess. “It’s the processing itself that makes these foods harmful,” she said.
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