Processed foods can have various negative impacts on health, primarily due to their high content of added sugars, sodium, and unhealthy fats. These foods often lack essential nutrients and fibers that whole foods provide, leading to poor dietary quality and increased risks of chronic conditions like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Additionally, they can disrupt metabolic processes and contribute to inflammation. Overconsumption of processed foods can also lead to unhealthy weight gain and associated health problems, emphasizing the importance of a balanced diet featuring whole, minimally processed foods.