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• Prior research has linked smoking to pancreatic cancer, but the reasons why were unclear.
• A new mouse study shows that chemicals in cigarette smoke change the immune system, which may prevent the immune system from fighting tumors.
• These findings could open the door for new treatments targeting this mechanism, but in the meantime, experts say this is yet another reason to quit smoking.

A new study has shed light on how cigarette smoking can worsen pancreatic cancer.

It has long been understood that there was a link between smoking and pancreatic cancer, but the exact mechanism was unclear.

Now, a group of scientists has discovered that certain chemicals in cigarette smoke actually reprogram the immune system in a way that helps tumors grow and spread. This could point to new treatment strategies for pancreatic cancer, which currently has very few options.

According to the authors, their findings are significant because pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest types of cancer, with only a five-year survival rate of 13%. The full results of the study were published on September 4 in Cancer Discovery.

The Hirshberg Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research adds further context, noting that it is the third leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States.

In 2025 alone, it is estimated that more than 67,000 Americans will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, and nearly 52,000 will die from it.

Effects of smoking on pancreatic cancer

The research, carried out by a team at the University of Michigan, combined lab experiments, mouse models, and human tissue samples.

They focused on a group of chemicals in cigarette smoke called aryl hydrocarbon receptor ligands (AhRLs).

These include well-known carcinogens such as dioxins. To mimic smoking, mice were treated with cigarette smoke extract or with 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), a powerful AhR ligand.

The researchers then implanted pancreatic cancer cells directly into the animals’ pancreases to track tumor growth.

They also used genetically engineered mice to tease apart how different immune cells responded to these smoke-related chemicals.

Finally, they compared the mouse findings to human pancreas tissue from organ donors and cancer patients.

The results were striking. Both cigarette smoke and TCDD accelerated pancreatic tumor growth in mice — but only if their immune system was intact. That means the chemicals weren’t damaging tumor cells directly. Instead, they were altering the immune response.

The key player was a receptor called AhR on CD4+ T cells. Once activated, these cells began producing more of a molecule called IL-22 and also boosted the number of regulatory T cells (Tregs).

Normally, Tregs keep the immune system in check. But in this case, they prevented CD8+ T cells — the ones that usually attack cancer — from doing their job. In other words, smoking tipped the balance of the immune system away from fighting tumors and toward letting them grow.

The team also saw that exposure to TCDD promoted early precancerous changes in the pancreas, suggesting that chemicals in cigarette smoke may play a role not just in cancer progression but also in its initiation.

Human tissue samples told a similar story. Smokers had more activation of the AhR pathway, and pancreatic tumors from smoking patients contained more Tregs.

The number of these suppressive cells also tracked with how much the patient had smoked over their lifetime.

Future treatments for pancreatic cancer

According to the authors, what they have learned could potentially lead to new treatments that block AhR activation or reduce the suppressive effect of Tregs.

This could help the immune system mount a stronger anti-cancer response, especially in smokers.

They additionally note that, since AhR ligands are also found in pollutants and industrial chemicals, the findings may carry wider public health significance.

However, Asfar Azmi, PhD, director of the Pancreatic Cancer Research Initiative at the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, who was not involved in the study, urges caution in interpreting what the findings mean.

“Although this research represents an important step forward, it’s still early,” Azmi said, adding that much of the evidence comes from labs, animal studies, and findings from human tissues.

“That means the results show a mechanism linking smoking and pancreatic cancer, but they don’t prove that every smoker will develop this cancer, or that blocking this pathway will automatically prevent it,” he told Healthline.

Azmi noted that more clinical research is necessary before these findings will actually change doctors’ practices regarding the treatment of pancreatic cancer.

Quitting smoking lowers pancreatic cancer risk

Najeeb Al Hallak, MD, MS, a medical oncologist with the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, said that “the message is clear that quitting smoking is one of the most important steps people can take to lower their risk of pancreatic cancer.” Hallak wasn’t involved in the study.

He further pointed out that smoking cessation may help reduce people’s risk of many other cancers, as well as heart and lung diseases.

“Even reducing exposure helps,” Hallak told Healthline, “but the greatest benefit comes from complete cessation.”

Hallak added that if you are a heavy smoker, it would also be a good idea to speak with your doctor about pancreatic cancer risk and whether you qualify for specialized monitoring or risk-reduction programs.

He also acknowledged the difficulties of smoking cessation, offering smokers some encouraging words. “Quitting is hard, but it is absolutely possible, and thousands succeed every day,” he said.

The first step in quitting? Speak with your personal physician. “They can guide you to nicotine replacement (patches, gum, or lozenges) or medications that reduce cravings,” Hallak said.

Hallak added that seeking support is essential. “Counseling, support groups, and quit lines (e.g., 1-800-QUIT-NOW) double your chances of success,” he said.

Additionally, Hallak suggests planning for your triggers. For example, if you are accustomed to smoking after meals or with coffee, create a healthier alternative that you can do instead.

Finally, he urges that you don’t give up after slips.

“Many people need several tries before quitting for good,” said Hallak. “Each attempt builds skills for the next.”

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• A new Gallup poll reports that over 18% of U.S. adults have or are being treated for depression.
• Depression rates have been at a historical high since 2024, with young adults and lower-income individuals among the hardest hit.
• Loneliness and financial strain are contributing to the rise in depression.
• A primary care physician is a good place to start if you need help with depression.

A new Gallup poll has found that more than 18% of U.S. adults currently report having or being treated for depression, marking a sustained increase to historically high levels since 2024. 

This translates to an estimated 47.8 million Americans grappling with depression this year — an increase of about eight percentage points since 2015. 

The data reflect a troubling trend, particularly among young adults and those with lower incomes, highlighting depression as a growing public health concern nationwide.

The survey, conducted through the Gallup National Health and Well-Being Index, surveyed over 11,000 adults ages 18 and older across all 50 states and the District of Columbia during early and mid-2025. 

The researchers used representative sampling to reflect U.S. demographics.

Respondents were asked whether a healthcare professional had ever diagnosed them with depression and if they currently have or are being treated for the condition. Here’s what the survey found.

Depression is highest among young, lower-income adults

The increase in depression rates has been most pronounced among younger adults under 30 and those from lower-income households. 

Since 2017, the depression rate among adults under 30 has more than doubled, rising from 13.0% to 26.7% in 2025. 

Depression among young adults continues to climb, rising from 24.6% in 2023 to 26.7% in 2025, showing that this age group faces a growing mental health challenge.

Lower-income adults are also experiencing sharp increases.

For those living in households earning less than $24,000 a year, depression rates jumped from 22.1% in 2017 to 35.1% in 2025 — a striking 13-point rise over eight years.

Since 2023 alone, the rate has surged 9 points, underscoring the mounting mental health burden on economically disadvantaged communities.

Gallup’s experts point to two factors behind the trend among young adults. First, today’s young adults are entering early adulthood with higher baseline rates of depression than their peers from eight years ago.

Second, depression has also risen among adults who were already older in 2017, creating an additive effect that further drives up overall prevalence among younger cohorts.

Rising loneliness linked to depression

The study also brings forth another important mental health concern: loneliness.

Among individuals who reported feeling lonely “a lot of the day” the previous day, one-third were also currently experiencing depression, compared with just 13% among those who did not report loneliness.

After declining from pandemic-era highs of 25% in 2020 to a range between 17% and 18% in 2022 and 2023, the rate of adults experiencing significant daily loneliness has risen again to 21% in the latter half of 2024 and early 2025. 

This represents the highest level since March 2021, during the early COVID-19 vaccine rollout phase. 

The increase is seen across nearly all age groups except adults aged 65 and older, who have remained steady at 15%. 

Among young adults aged 18-29, nearly 3 in 10 (29%) now experience significant daily loneliness — higher than any other age group and corresponding with their elevated depression rates.

Lifetime depression diagnoses are near a record high

The proportion of U.S. adults who have ever been diagnosed with depression stands at 28.5%, just shy of the record 29% recorded in early 2023. 

This suggests that while more individuals are receiving diagnoses, many continue to struggle with ongoing or recurrent depression. 

The sustained high rates of lifetime diagnosis show just how widespread the condition is across the country.

Why are depression rates increasing?

Robert Bell, LPC, LAC, founder of Intrepid Insights, told Healthline that there are several factors driving the rise in depression across the country.

“First, younger adults are navigating unprecedented stressors — student debt, social media pressures, economic uncertainty, and disruptions in building careers and relationships,” he explained. “These challenges can leave many feeling isolated or like they’re falling behind.”

Financial strain is another major contributor, according to Bell.

“When people are worried about how they’ll afford food, housing, or healthcare, the nervous system stays on high alert,” he said, noting that long-term stress often leads to symptoms of depression, such as fatigue, hopelessness, and difficulty concentrating.

“We also can’t overlook the impact of loneliness,” Bell added. “Even though we’re more digitally connected than ever, many people — especially young adults — report feeling deeply disconnected in their day-to-day lives.”

Social support plays an essential role in protecting us from depression, he noted. Without it, we become more vulnerable.

Finally, Bell said cultural factors can play a part in depression.

“In the U.S., we often tie identity to productivity,” he said. “When someone struggles at work or school because of depression, they may feel ashamed, which only compounds the problem.”

Resources for depression

If you’re experiencing symptoms associated with depression, it’s important to seek out help, according to Iman Hypolite, MD, CEO, and Principal Psychiatrist at Aspira Health and Wellness Consulting.

“I encourage starting with a thorough evaluation from a licensed mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist, to diagnose what is taking place and come up with an effective treatment plan,” she said.

Hypolite added that primary care physicians are a good place to start if you need a referral.

She noted that there are several effective treatments available for depression, including therapy, medications, and even evidence-based supplements.

“For others, it may mean lifestyle adjustments such as improving sleep, nutrition, increasing social connection and support, spending more time in sunlight and physical activity, simplifying daily demands, reducing media exposure, or setting healthier boundaries in relationships and at work,” she explained.

Hypolite further noted the importance of early intervention.

Firstly, it can take weeks to get an appointment, so you don’t want to wait until your symptoms become worse. Additionally, delaying treatment can put you at greater risk, she said.

“Untreated depression not only increases the risk of suicide but also contributes to isolation, lost productivity, and financial strain,” said Hypolite, “all of which further undermine the very engagement and stability that can help buffer against depression.”

Hypolite concluded by offering resources for those with depression.

“National resources such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Helpline, community-based support groups, and Employee Assistance Programs can provide immediate guidance,” she said.

“The important thing to remember is that depression is not a personal failing; it is a signal that support and recalibration are needed,” said Hypolite.

Emma Heming Willis firmly defends moving Bruce Willis to his own home…

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• Researchers estimate that around 44% of people in the U.S. with diabetes are unaware they have the disease.
• Experts say undiagnosed and under-treated diabetes can lead to a variety of serious health issues, including heart disease and neuropathy.
• They recommend that people get regular screenings for blood glucose levels to determine if they have diabetes.

Researchers report that a significant portion of the world’s population with diabetes is undiagnosed and many people who are aware of their condition are still not getting optimal treatment.

The study, from scientists at the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) at the University of Washington School of Medicine in Seattle, was published on September 8 in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology journal.

The findings indicate that 44% of people ages 15 and older worldwide are unaware they have developed diabetes.

The highest rate of undiagnosed cases was among young adults, who face higher risks for long-term complications from the disease.

In addition, the IHME scientists said 91% of people diagnosed with diabetes were receiving some form of pharmacological treatment. However, they estimated that only 42% of those receiving treatment had their blood sugar levels managed optimally.

David Cutler, MD, a family medicine physician at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, CA, not affiliated with the research, said the study sends a clear message.

“We need to make people aware of the prevalence and seriousness of this disease,” he told Healthline.

Most undiagnosed cases are type 2 diabetes

The study analyzed information on people of all ages and genders in 204 countries from 2000 to 2023.

The researchers reported that high-income North America had the highest rates of diagnosis, while the high-income Asia Pacific region showed the highest rates of treatment. Southern Latin America had the highest rates of optimal blood sugar management.

Central sub-Saharan Africa had the lowest rates of diagnosis, with less than 20% of people with diabetes being aware of their condition.

The research team told Healthline that both type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes were included in the analysis, but most of the undiagnosed cases involved type 2 diabetes.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that more than 29 million adults in the United States have been diagnosed with diabetes.

However, another 8 million adults are unaware they have the disease. That’s an undiagnosed rate of about 20%.

“Diagnosing diabetes early is important because it allows for timely management to prevent or delay long-term complications,” Rita Kalyani, MD, the chief scientific and medical officer at the American Diabetes Association (ADA), told Healthline. Kalyani wasn’t involved in the research.

Health risks of undiagnosed diabetes

The IMHE researchers stated in a news release that undiagnosed cases of diabetes “could easily become a silent epidemic.”

They note there is an urgent need for investments in screening programs, especially among younger populations. They add that better access to medications and glucose-monitoring tools is also essential.

Lauryn Stafford, a researcher at IMHE and the lead author of the study, told Healthline that diabetes that isn’t diagnosed or managed properly can lead to a variety of serious health issues, including:

• heart disease
• stroke
• chronic kidney disease
• neuropathy
• retinopathy
• foot ulcers

“If someone is not aware of their diabetes, they will not receive the treatment or lifestyle guidance from their physician that they need to manage their diabetes,” Stafford said.

“The longer someone has diabetes that is not managed with treatment, the greater risk of developing microvascular complications,” she added.

“The health risks from diabetes can be quite detrimental,” noted Cutler.

Symptoms, treatment for diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which a person’s body doesn’t produce sufficient insulin. It is usually a genetic condition. About 2 million U.S. adults have this type of diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition in which the body has difficulty managing blood sugar levels. People with weight management issues have a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. About 36 million U.S. adults are estimated to have this type of diabetes.

Prediabetes is a condition in which a person has high blood sugar levels but not high enough for a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. About 98 million Americans 18 years and older are estimated to have this condition.

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) states there are a variety of symptoms that can indicate a person may be developing diabetes. Among them:

• urinating often
• feeling very thirsty
• feeling very hungry — even though you are eating
• extreme fatigue
• blurry vision
• cuts/bruises that are slow to heal
• weight loss — even though you are eating more (type 1)
• tingling, pain, or numbness in the hands/feet (type 2)

Stafford added that people who are overweight, have elevated blood pressure, or reduced kidney function are at higher risk of developing diabetes.

However, she pointed out that diabetes symptoms may not appear in the initial stages of the disease.

“Diabetes may go undiagnosed for a while as it can sometimes take time for someone to develop symptoms or complications that are serious enough to warrant a visit to a healthcare provider. This is particularly the case for type 2 diabetes,” Stafford said.

Kalyani agreed. “In the early stages, most people with diabetes are asymptomatic, which highlights the importance of screening and diagnosis,” she noted.

Cutler added that in many cases, a person won’t develop symptoms until their condition has reached an advanced stage. “It’s a slow-progressing disease, and many times a person won’t have any signs or symptoms,” he said.

That’s why experts recommend regular screenings for diabetes. Cutler said that an A1c test, which measures a person’s average blood sugar level over the previous three months, is particularly important.

Stafford, however, cautioned that screenings are not necessarily convenient or available for everyone.

“The proper implementation of screening protocols requires regular visits with primary care providers, which may be difficult for people who are underinsured or live in rural/low-resource areas with limited healthcare facilities,” she said.

“For young adults, it may not be standard practice to regularly screen for diabetes, even if they have risk factors. Given the larger uninsured population in the United States compared to other high-income countries, it is likely that this factor plays a larger role in undiagnosed diabetes,” Stafford added.

Treatment for type 2 diabetes usually involves lifestyle changes. Regular exercise is recommended, mainly to manage a person’s weight.

A healthy diet is also a key component. Among the dietary recommendations:

• Eating foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains that are rich in fiber and healthy carbohydrates.
• Eating at regular intervals.
• Keep sweets, animal fats, and refined carbohydrates to a minimum.

Some medications, such as metformin, can be prescribed for type 2 diabetes to lower glucose levels and improve the body’s response to insulin.

In addition, some weight-loss GLP-1 drugs, including Ozempic and Mounjaro, have been approved to treat type 2 diabetes.

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• New research suggests that people who use their phone while sitting on the toilet are 46% more likely to develop hemorrhoids.
• The findings indicate that scrolling for longer periods of time on the toilet increases rectal vein pressure.
• Experts say constipation, straining, and prolonged sitting are contributing factors for hemorrhoids.
• Simple lifestyle changes, like more fiber, hydration, movement, and less scrolling, can help reduce the risk.

Scrolling on your phone while sitting on the toilet may come with an uncomfortable side effect: a higher risk of hemorrhoids.

A new study published on September 3 in PLOS One looked at the toilet habits of 125 adults undergoing colonoscopies at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston. 

Nearly two-thirds admitted to scrolling while on the toilet, and those who did were found to be 46% more likely to develop hemorrhoids compared to those who didn’t. 

Researchers found that phone users tended to linger on the toilet significantly longer, often five minutes or more per visit. 

Toilet phone users also reported getting less physical activity overall, suggesting that both toilet and lifestyle habits may increase hemorrhoid risk.

Toilet phone use and hemorrhoids

Michael J. Allen, MD, a family medicine and primary care physician at Houston Methodist Clear Lake, explained that sitting on the toilet for extended periods can put rectal veins under pressure. Allen wasn’t involved in the study.

“Blood tends to pool, and that swelling makes hemorrhoids more likely,” he told Healthline. “Think of it like kinking a garden hose; the longer you do it, the more backpressure builds up.”

The combination of sitting for prolonged periods of time and the leaning forward position that’s become synonymous with phone use could lead to straining and swelling.

“This position causes continuous pressure on the delicate veins, resulting in swelling and increasing the chances of hemorrhoids developing,” Snieguole Geige, medical doctor at It’s Me & You Clinic, told Healthline. Geige was likewise not involved in the study.

“It can’t be compared to sitting on a chair where the pelvis has some support,” she said. “As the pressure persists minute after minute, often without you even realizing it, these vascular cushions become engorged and stretched.”

The main contributing factors to hemorrhoids are anything that increases pressure in the lower rectum. 

“The big ones are constipation, straining, sitting too long (whether on the toilet or at a desk), pregnancy, chronic diarrhea, and low fiber diets,” Allen said. “All of these make the veins swell and bulge, and that’s what creates hemorrhoids.”

Hemorrhoid symptoms to watch out for

While habits like scrolling can make hemorrhoids more likely, it’s important to recognize the signs early so you know when self-care is enough versus when it’s time to seek medical advice.

“Most people notice itching, some discomfort, or swelling around the anus, and at times some blood after a bowel movement,” said Geige. ”Some patients also develop a sore lump that can easily be felt.” 

For most people, hemorrhoids are simply an uncomfortable ailment that can cause embarrassment. However, there are serious symptoms that can be cause for concern. 

Allen said you should see your doctor if you experience any of the following: 

• persistent or heavy bleeding 
• pain isn’t improving with over-the-counter measures 
• symptoms last longer than a week 
• dark, black, or tarry stools

How to reduce your risk of hemorrhoids

Leaving your phone out of the bathroom is an obvious choice to reduce your risk of hemorrhoids. If your phone must accompany you to the toilet, there are a few things you can do.

Geige recommended placing a small footstool under your feet. “This brings your knees up slightly, putting your body in a better position to go without straining,” she explained. 

One of the best things you can do outside of the bathroom is eat foods that limit your risk of constipation.

Allen noted that a high fiber diet is often key. “A high fiber diet softens stool and makes it easier to pass, reducing straining, while low fiber, processed foods can make constipation worse,” he said.

“Increase your intake of dietary fiber,” he continued. “[Aim for] around 25–30 grams daily from fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains is a good target.”

Hydration is also helpful. “Without enough fluid, fiber can ‘dry things out’ down there instead of helping,” Geige said. 

“I try to drink water regularly throughout the day, and I suggest patients anchor it to meals. Simply drinking a glass with breakfast, lunch, and dinner can make a real change over time,” she added.

Finally, both experts agreed that exercise can help promote regularity and reduce the risk of constipation. Even light walking counts. 

“If you are lifting heavy things, make sure you bend at your knees and keep your back straight. Otherwise, you’re putting pressure right where you don’t need it,” Geige said.

What are the treatment options for hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids can be easily treated in most cases. 

“Mild cases often improve with over-the-counter creams or suppositories,” Allen explained. “Sitz baths can also be helpful, while cold compresses can ease swelling.” 

To dull the pain, he recommended oral pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

While most mild cases can be managed at home, medical procedures may be necessary if symptoms are severe or recurrent, bleeding is significant, and conservative treatment has failed. 

“Procedures can include rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, or surgical removal. However, it’s important to remember surgery is rare and reserved for stubborn cases,” Allen said.

While hemorrhoids are very common, you can reduce your risk with small lifestyle tweaks. The bottom line? Eat more fiber, drink more water, and spend less time on your phone while on the toilet. 

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• Ultra-processed foods can increase the risk of multiple chronic health conditions, such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
• A new study found that a diet heavy in ultra-processed foods can harm male reproductive health and reduce sperm quality.
• The researchers say that ultra-processed foods may contain molecules found in plastics that are known to disrupt hormonal systems in the body.

A new study reports that ultra-processed foods may be linked to a decline in male reproductive health, including sperm quality.

The research, published on August 28 in Cell Metabolism, states that regular consumption of ultra-processed foods has several effects on a person’s health.

These include higher cholesterol levels and increased body weight. They noted that participants in their study gained more than a kilogram of weight when they ate ultra-processed foods. The amount of fat mass in their bodies also increased.

The researchers added that “sperm quality trended toward impairment” when participants were on an ultra-processed diet.

The researchers pointed out that these health effects occurred even when a person on an ultra-processed diet consumed the same number of calories as a person on another type of diet.

“This study provides evidence that consumption of ultra-processed food is detrimental for cardiometabolic and reproductive outcomes, regardless of excessive caloric intake,” the study authors wrote.

Philip Werthman, MD, a urologist and director of the Center for Male Reproductive Medicine and Vasectomy Reversal in Los Angeles, says the study is proof that what you eat can be more important than how much you eat.

“It’s not the calories you’re getting. It’s the type of calories you’re getting,” Werthman told Healthline.

Effects of an ultra-processed diet on sperm quality

For their study, researchers recruited 43 males ages 20–35. Each participant spent three weeks on both a diet primarily of ultra-processed foods and a diet of unprocessed foods, with a 3-month “washing out” period between the two diets.

Half of the participants started on the unprocessed diet while the other half began with the ultra-processed diet. Half of the men from each group were also put on a diet that included 500 extra calories per day.

Researchers noted that subjects on the ultra-processed diet experienced an increase in the phthalate cxMINP, a substance found in plastics that can disrupt hormones.

Those on the ultra-processed diet also saw decreases in their testosterone levels and follicle-stimulating hormones, which are crucial for sperm production.

The researchers said some of the endocrine-disrupting substances may come from the plastic packaging used for ultra-processed foods.

They note that the introduction of ultra-processed foods in the 1970s seems to fall in line with a 60% decline worldwide in sperm count.

Kristin Kirkpatrick, president of KAK Consulting and a dietitian at Cleveland Clinic’s Department of Wellness & Preventive Medicine, said the research sends a clear message.

“The study found that endocrine disrupters and other components altered hormone levels in men, even if the men were healthy,” she told Healthline. “This means, even if you’re healthy based on other parameters, yet consume a diet higher in ultra-processed foods, you still are at risk for increases in chronic conditions.”

Werthman added that a man’s general health can also affect their reproductive system. For example, a person who has gained weight, developed type 2 diabetes, or experienced a rise in cholesterol levels may see a decline in reproductive health measures such as sperm quality.

“The reproductive system is a function of your overall health,” Werthman explained. “The reproductive system is quite sensitive.”

Michael Eisenberg, MD, a professor of urology at Stanford University, had one caution about the study’s conclusions.

“While none reached statistical significance, there does appear to be a decline in semen quality when examining the summative data,” he told Healthline. “However, it’s important to note that the intervention was for three weeks, and a cycle of sperm production typically takes between two to three months.”

Health impacts of ultra-processed foods

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that ultra-processed foods account for an average of 55% of total calories consumed by people in the United States.

It notes that people under 19 years of age tend to eat slightly more ultra-processed foods than adults 19 years and older. The agency states there is little difference in ultra-processed food consumption between men and women.

The CDC says ultra-processed foods tend to be “hyperpalatable, energy-dense, low in dietary fiber, and contain little or no whole foods, while having high amounts of salt, sweeteners, and unhealthy fats.”

It states that sandwiches (including burgers), sweet bakery products, sweetened beverages, and savory snacks are among the top sources of calories from ultra-processed foods.

A July 2025 study reported that ultra-processed foods are a major contributing factor to obesity as well as increasing a person’s for heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and sleep apnea.

An April 2025 study estimated that ultra-processed foods were linked to 124,000 preventable deaths in the United States during a two-year period.

A May 2024 study revealed that ultra-processed foods may also increase the risk of stroke and cognitive decline.

Kirkpatrick said there are a number of reasons for these impacts, including what a person is not eating.

“Consuming ultra-processed foods means that other foods, which are found to help in the prevention of heart disease (like fresh fruit and vegetables, healthy fats, and fiber) are not being consumed,” she said.

“Further, excess sugar and sodium consumption has been found in multiple studies to pose a significant risk to heart health. Sugar and sodium are common ingredients in ultra-processed foods.”

Werthman said the pattern is clear. “This study is another confirmation that the food industry has been poisoning us for the past 20 to 30 years,” he noted. “We see the effects of that now.”

Tips to improve male reproductive health

Experts say there are lifestyle habits that can help improve and maintain male reproductive health.

“In general, good diet (whole grains, fruits, vegetables), exercise, and maintaining a good body weight will help overall and reproductive health,” said Eisenberg.

Werthman says a healthy diet is “a big component” of that equation, but noted that men, especially those in the process of trying to have children, should exercise regularly as well as avoid alcohol and tobacco.

Kirkpatrick agreed.

“Eating a diet high in nutrient density, such as the Mediterranean diet, as well as regular exercise, adequate sleep, stress management, maintaining a healthy weight, and abstaining from tobacco and alcohol, may all play a role in better reproductive health,” she said.

Werthman noted that heat sources such as saunas and hot tubs can temporarily impact sperm quality and quantity.

“All these things affect the reproductive system,” he said. “The body is an integrated system.”