And what your unhealthy fast food choices do to your body
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Is it true that fast food is more powerful than a hero’s willpower?
Yes, we get it. You’re starving. More like “hangry.” And no one can stop you from eating the most convenient, fastest, and tastiest two-piece fried chicken meal with creamy mushroom soup, soda, and brownies. But is it really worth gobbling? I don’t think so. Before you order your next “convenient” meal, consider these facts first.
1. Everything at once
No-course menu—from soup to dessert. These are so-called food bundles. Almost all chains have the same strategy to win you over without minding the total calorie intake you may end up with in just one meal.
- You may end up feeling bloated, lethargic, drowsy, and happy after a few hours. Thanks to a spike in blood sugar levels, happy hormones, and fatty food.
2. Low in fiber
Most fast food restaurants do not serve vegetables or whole fruits. If there’s one, then maybe it’s a plus point for them, but it’s still unhealthy. Not vegetarian-friendly either.
- Not getting enough fiber can leave you feeling constantly hungry during the day. Fiber breaks down slower than other nutrients. Poor fiber intake can increase your risk of weight gain and heart disease.
3. Energy–dense (empty calorie food) due to high fat and sugar content
We always say it’s all because of sugar alone. We keep blaming sugar, thinking that ordering a zero-calorie drink or water with a greasy burger will save us from the guilt. Don’t forget about fat. Almost every fast food is either greased or deeply fried in oil, adding up high amounts of excess calories.
- After eating high amounts of empty calorie foods, the body begins to store consumed or unused excess calories as fat within four to eight hours. It may take a day or two to see the true value you gained.
4. Hash browns are more sinful than burgers
Maybe you were asked a hundred times before, “Would you like a hash brown to go with your breakfast meal?” Hash browns have minimal protein and fiber, so they’ll send your blood sugar soaring. It’s also high in fat because most of its surface is soaked with oil.
- Eating two or more portions of fried potatoes (this also includes French fries) each week doubles your risk of an early death up to 27 percent according to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
5. Customers are mainly teenagers and young adults
Some young adults and adolescents consume fast food on a typical school day due to taste and convenience. This may be because most schools have quick access to these chains. This specific eating behavior can lead to overweight problems during adulthood.
- Eating these for lunch for five consecutive days may negatively impact your metabolism, resulting in obesity and weight gain later on.
6. Street food is also fast food
Quick deep frying. Empty caloric food. What more can I say?
- When fast food frequently replaces healthy whole foods in the diet, it can lead to all sorts of bad health outcomes. This also concerns last month’s weight loss goals.
7. Increased chronic diseases are associated with the growth of the food industry
Studies from the Journal of Public Health Nutrition have found that the increased number of individuals who have developed diabetes, hypertension, and kidney problem is linked to poor food quality.
- Researches show that people who eat fast food at least three times a week can gain 9.9 pounds and double insulin resistance than those who eat fast food once a week.
8. Fast food restaurants aren’t slowing down
From franchise food chains to food parks. Great places to unwind and chill out with the gang. Convenient, tasty, and empty-caloric meals are making big money these days since most diners prefer these joints over other restaurants. Despite the popularity of healthy lifestyle goals, these types of food are still widespread and suited to modern life.
- They often contains greasy and oily items that may influence the risk of developing diseases like atherosclerosis and hypertension. For individuals with existing heart problems, foods high in fat (and has high amount of sodium and MSG) may lead to heart attack or stroke.