The Relationship between Ultra-Processed Food Consumption and the Incidence of Metabolic Syndrome in Office Workers

Abstract

Dietary patterns dominated by Ultra-Processed Foods (UPF) have emerged as a pressing public health concern, particularly among office workers with sedentary lifestyles. This study aimed to examine the association between UPF consumption habits and the occurrence of metabolic syndrome among government employees in Bengkulu, while accounting for relevant confounding factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among all permanent employees of the Bengkulu City Social Services Office (n=80) using a census approach. UPF intake was assessed using a Food Frequency Questionnaire based on the NOVA classification system, and metabolic syndrome was determined according to the International Diabetes Federation criteria. Statistical analyses included Chi-square tests and multiple logistic regression analysis. Results: Findings revealed that 56.2% of respondents were classified as high UPF consumers, and 40% were diagnosed with metabolic syndrome. Multivariate analysis demonstrated a significant association between high UPF consumption and metabolic syndrome (p=0.004; OR=5.12; 95% CI: 1.89–13.85) after adjustment for age and length of employment. Conclusion: This study confirms that excessive UPF consumption habits increase susceptibility to metabolic syndrome among office worker populations. These findings underscore the importance of developing workplace health programs targeting dietary behaviour modification in office environments.