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Mediterranean Diet Adherence and Ultraprocessed Food Consumption in Relation to Body Composition and Muscle Function
Bhavana Soma1, Angelina Baric1, Jennifer Heisz1
1Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada.
Background:
Midlife is a critical period for women's health, during which hormonal changes increase the risk of unfavorable body composition and functional decline. Diet quality is a key modifiable determinant, yet evidence in midlife and older women remains fragmented, particularly regarding food processing and whole-diet patterns.
Objectives:
This study aimed to examine associations of Mediterranean diet adherence and ultraprocessed food (UPF) consumption with body composition and muscle function among midlife and older women, and to assess whether associations differ by menopausal status.
Methods:
We analyzed data from a cross-sectional sample of 8376 females aged 45 to 80 y participating in the 2007-2018 NHANES. Dietary intake was assessed using two 24-h recalls, from which Mediterranean diet adherence was estimated using a modified Mediterranean Diet Score, and UPF intake was quantified as the proportion of total grams from NOVA-classified UPFs. Outcomes included BMI, total body fat percentage, android-to-gynoid fat ratio, appendicular lean mass (ALM) relative to BMI (ALM/BMI), grip strength, bone mineral density, and categorical BMI and bone health classifications. Survey-weighted regression models were used with multivariable adjustment. Effect modification by menopausal status was evaluated using interaction terms.
Results:
In fully adjusted models, a higher modified Mediterranean Diet Score was associated with lower BMI, total and central adiposity, and greater ALM/BMI. Higher UPF consumption showed opposite associations and was additionally associated with weaker grip strength. Associations with bone outcomes were weak and did not persist after full adjustment. No statistically significant interactions with menopausal status were observed.
Conclusions:
Among midlife and older United States women, higher diet quality and lower UPF consumption are associated with more favorable body composition and muscle function, whereas associations with bone health are less evident. These findings highlight the relevance of diet quality and food processing for body composition changes during aging in women.
