A shift away from a hunter-gatherer diet, once rich in meat and plant-based foods, may be shrinking jawlines, especially in today’s world where ultra-processed foods (UPFs) like ice cream and potato chips are common choices for children.
Research from the Catholic University of Valencia suggests that UPFs can lead to developmental issues in children’s jaws, potentially resulting in dental deformities like buck teeth. The study highlights the negative impact of UPFs—foods typically loaded with additives and requiring minimal chewing, such as ready meals, cereals, and sweets.
Researchers examined the dietary habits of children aged 3 to 5, focusing on the connection between soft diets and jaw development. They found that diets high in UPFs limit the necessary chewing activity that stimulates bone growth, strengthens facial muscles, and supports proper dental alignment.
“Chewing solid, fibrous foods like fruits, vegetables, or natural proteins is essential for healthy jaw development,” said Dr. Laura Marqués Martínez, co-author of the study and an expert in pediatric dentistry, in an interview with The Telegraph. “These foods help prevent malocclusion, or misalignment of teeth, and promote proper formation of dental arches. In contrast, soft, hyper-palatable UPFs fail to adequately engage the jaw muscles, leading to underdeveloped bone structures.”
The study also highlighted broader health concerns related to UPFs, including overeating, obesity, and respiratory problems. Researchers noted that the shift from a hunter-gatherer diet to one reliant on soft, processed options has contributed to these issues.
This research adds to growing concerns about the long-term impact of UPFs on children’s health. The scientists emphasize the importance of incorporating natural, fibrous foods into children’s diets to support optimal jaw development and overall health.
