According to the largest analysis of the impact of ultra-processed foods on our mental and physical health, there are dozens of products that have harmful effects on our bodies.

An analysis published in the academic journal BMJ shows the risks that ultra-processed foods - such as sugary cereals, ready-to-eat meals and carbonated drinks - could have on physical and mental health.

Researchers used data from 9.9 million people, collected from dietary questionnaires, according to SkyNews.

Ultra-processed foods are usually higher in fats, sugars and salt, and contain chemicals, colorings, sweeteners and preservatives that extend shelf life.

Researchers say ultra-processed foods have been associated with a 50% higher risk of death from cardiovascular disease, a 12% higher risk of type II diabetes, and a 48-53% higher risk of developing anxiety.

There was also very suggestive evidence that higher consumption of ultra-processed foods could increase the risk of obesity, type II diabetes, sleep problems and death from heart disease by 40-66%, as well as a 22% higher risk of developing depression and a 21% higher risk of death from any cause.

Ultra-processed foods are also closely linked to asthma, gastrointestinal health and some types of cancer.

Scientists say the study results "provide justification for developing and evaluating the effectiveness of public health and population-based measures to target and reduce exposure to ultra-processed foods to improve human health".

Also, academics from Brazil say that "there is no reason to believe that people can fully adapt" to ultra-processed foods.

Scientists believe that these foods are "often composed of cheap ingredients, chemically manipulated" and "made tasty and attractive by using combinations of flavors, colorings, emulsifiers, fat agents and other additives".

"It is time for United Nations agencies, together with member states, to develop and implement a framework convention on ultra-processed foods, similar to that on tobacco", they concluded.