Effect of ultra-processed food consumption on premenstrual syndrome across different body mass index categories: a cross-sectional analysis

Purpose This study aimed to examine the association between ultra-processed food (UPF) consumption and premenstrual syndrome (PMS) across different body mass index (BMI) categories in women. Design/methodology/approach A total of 480 women aged 20–49 years participated in the study between May 2024 and May 2025 in 3 cities in Türkiye. PMS symptoms were assessed using the Premenstrual Syndrome Scale (PMSS), and UPF intake was evaluated according to the NOVA classification using a food frequency questionnaire. Anthropometric measurements, including height and body weight, were taken by researchers, and BMI was calculated for each participant. Findings The mean BMI of the participants was 24.2 ± 4.9 kg/m2, with an average daily UPF intake of 858.0 ± 133.3 g. Higher UPF intake was significantly associated with increased reporting of PMS, with 7.0% higher odds among normal-weight women, 19.0% higher odds among overweight women, and 41.0% higher odds among women with obesity. Moreover, as UPF consumption increased from the lowest (Q1) to the highest quartile (Q4), the odds of experiencing PMS symptoms were 2.65 times (OR: 2.65, %95 CI: 1.52–4.61), 2.85 times (OR: 2.85, %95 CI:1.60–4.95), and 3.07 times (OR: 3.07, %95 CI: 1.71–5.49) higher, respectively (p = 0.001). Research limitations/implications These findings underscore a significant association between UPF consumption and PMS symptoms, particularly among women with obesity. Given the high prevalence of PMS and its substantial impact on women's well-being, dietary interventions aimed at reducing UPF intake may represent a promising approach for PMS management and prevention. Originality/value To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to examine the relationship between UPF intake and self-reported PMS presence across different BMI categories.