Why you should stop eating fast food?
In simple and lucid terms, fast food refers to food that can be prepared and served quickly. It can come from various sources including counter service, take-out, sit-down restaurants and delivery. The main reasons behind fast food being extremely popular include it being convenient, tasty, and pocket friendly. Despite these, fast food is often made with cheap ingredients and is also high in sodium which is used as a preservative and makes food more flavorful and satisfying.
Due to the mentioned reasons, fast food is not healthy as such. Its excessive consumption might lead to various health problems in the long run. Here is a look at some reasons for you to stop eating fast food.
Its effect on cardiovascular and digestive systems
Fast foods like burger, fries, drinks etc. are loaded with carbohydrates and almost no fibre. When the digestive system breaks down these foods, the carbs are released as glucose into the bloodstream, increasing blood sugar level. Over time, this may affect the body’s normal insulin. This increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, weight gain etc.
High sodium level
Fast foods have high levels of sodium, which is one of the reasons behind its taste. However, diets high in sodium can lead to water retention. It is also dangerous for people with blood pressure conditions.
Effect on the central nervous system
Though fast food satisfies hunger in the short term, its long term results are not good. As per a research published by Cambridge University Press in 2011, people who eat fast food and processed pastries are 51 per cent more likely to develop depression than people who don’t eat those foods or eat very few of them.
Effect on the respiratory system
The excess amount of calories in fast food lead to weight gain and obesity, which increases the risk of respiratory problems like asthma and shortness of breath.
High sugar and fat levels
Fast foods contain a large amount of ‘added’ sugar in them, which results in extra calories. Also, foods like pastries, pizza, cookies etc. are rich in trans-fat. Trans-fat increases the body’s bad cholesterol level and reduces good cholesterol level. This often results in diabetes and heart ailments.
Effect on bones
Carbs and sugar in fast food can increase acids in your mouth. These acids can break down tooth enamel. As tooth enamel disappears, bacteria can take hold, and cavities may develop.
Effect on the reproductive system
The ingredients in junk food and fast food may have an impact on your fertility. Processed food contains phthalates, which are chemicals that can interrupt how hormones act in your body. Exposure to high levels of these chemicals could lead to reproductive issues.