The Fast Food Industry is a global one and one that is worth billions of dollars every year. The industry has received a lot of damaging publicity over recent years, criticised for its effect on the health of its consumers. Not wanting to give up its sizable chunk of the market the industry has been forced to offer ‘healthy’ eating options such as wraps, salads and fruit bags. A small step in the right direction, but still a long way to go, as the majority of items on the menu are still unhealthy. Here are some reasons why we stay away from it:-
Highly processed and full of additives: There are a number of factors as to why fast food is not good for you, the first and foremost being it is usually highly processed, meaning most of the nutritious elements have been removed from it. The food is mass produced at processing plants, altering its natural state for food-safety reasons and convenience. After most of the goodness is gone so has the flavour, to make it ‘tasty’ again spices and herbs are added (which is fine) but it doesn’t stop there, salt, mono sodium glutamate, sugars, artificial colours & flavourings and preservatives are also added making it an unhealthy package.
High in sodium: Fast food is also extremely high in sodium (salt). Salt is added to a huge range of products such as fries, meat products and sauces in order to enhance the flavour. In large amounts, sodium can have harmful effects on your health. Sodium attracts and retains fluid in your body causing fluid retention which can lead to weight gain and heart problems. It also puts additional strain on your kidneys which are responsible for eliminating excess sodium from the body. If the kidneys can’t cope and sodium builds up in your bloodstream, it forces the heart to work harder, resulting in high blood pressure and heart disease.
Contains trans-fats: One of the worst items found in fast food is trans-fat. Trans-fats are liquid oils that have been hydrogenated so they stay solid at room temperature and have a longer shelf life. Trans-fats can raise LDL-cholesterol (harmful cholesterol) levels which can lead to heart disease, heart attacks and strokes.
Added sugar: Sugar is a refined food and contains no essential vitamins, minerals or fibre. Sugar alone is not responsible for weight gain but it does play a role. Sugar is a carbohydrate and is therefore a source of energy (calories) and when added to processed foods it is usually in the company of fat. It is easy to over consume sugar, adding no nutritional value to a meal only additional calories.
Bad Eating Habits: A typical meal from a fast food outlet comprises of fries, hamburger and a soft drink, all of which are in large portions or ‘Super-Sized’ for a little extra. And all of which will be consumed (“I paid for it so I can’t waste it”), leading to overeating and eventual weight gain. As the meal is highly processed (with little nutritional value) the feeling of being ‘full’ doesn’t last long and you start to feel hungry again.
Are we really wondering why our nation is being faced with an obesity epidemic?
With easy and constant access to these types of nutritionally diminished foods, many people are consuming countless more calories than are required. People are overeating because they remain under nourished by these foods. Foods that don’t provide the body with nourishment also don’t truly satisfy you, so you over eat in pursuit of that satisfaction.
Ultimately, eating fast food on a regular basis poses serious risks to your health. Our bodies are designed to eat fresh, natural whole foods that provide the body with vitamins, minerals, fibre and nutrients. In the future make smart, healthy choices when it comes to what you buy and eat.
