, Sept. 16 -- processed foods may be associated with higher levels of fat stored inside thigh muscles, potentially increasing the risk of knee osteoarthritis, according to a new study.

Researchers found that people at risk of knee osteoarthritis who consumed more ultra-processed foods tended to have more fat within their thigh muscles. The association remained even after researchers considered calorie and fat intake, physical activity and sociodemographic factors.

The findings were published in Radiology, a journal of the Radiological Society of North America.

Ultra-processed foods are generally made to be convenient, attractive and long-lasting. They often contain combinations of sugar, fat, salt and carbohydrates that can stimulate t...