junk food facts
Junk Food Facts
The junk food facts mentioned below would make you aware of the damage these unhealthy food items cause to the body. While almost all people enjoy eating junk food, most are not aware of the health risk posed by them. This article delves into the facts about these food items and explores the associated health risks...
- Junk foods are known for their high sugar content. A single can of cola contains a staggering 10 teaspoons of sugar. Thus, people who are in the 'dieting mode' should think twice even before sipping colas. Other foods which contain high amounts of sugar include chocolates, cakes, biscuits, etc.
- The amount of minerals and vitamins is less in junk foods, while it is loaded with calories.
- The oxycholesterol content too is high in these foods; oxycholesterol is one of the different types of cholesterol, the high intake of which increases chances of a heart attack.
- The unused sugars are converted into fats and thus, people who consume junk foods regularly, are at a risk of gaining more weight than others.
- Artificial flavors used in junk foods that are sold for children is double in sweetness to that of adult food. It may lead to harmful effects on children. The sweetness already present in natural foods becomes unpalatable for children due to excessive intake of artificial sugars through junk food.
- The colors and flavors present in junk foods are responsible for causing rashes, asthma and other problems like hyperactivity.
- In the United States of America, around 12.5 million children are overweight. Consumption of junk food is an important cause behind children gaining weight.
- Food items such as chips, cookies, candy bars, muffins, fried foods, etc., contain high amounts of hydrogenated oils and fats. The trans fats or hydrogenated oils present in these foods do not serve any purpose in the nourishment of the body.
- The excessive amount of salts present in junk food items like chips and pretzels cause the sodium percentage to rise in the body. Sodium if present in high amounts, leads to increase in blood pressure levels.
- It has been observed that the margin of profit earned by soft drink companies is around 97%. Thus, it is possible for them to resort to excessive spending in advertising their products.
- The intake of junk foods is responsible for health problems like tooth decay, different types of cancers and many other diseases, apart from heart disease, obesity and high blood pressure.
- Fats present in junk foods cause the brain to demand more food. Such an effect of fats on the brain can remain for long periods of time.
- Aggressive marketing of junk food products is the main reason behind people resorting to such unhealthy stuff, which is being consumed on a regular basis. Targeting children right from the age of 2-4 yrs. causes the market share of junk food manufacturers to attain a sustained growth; it is but natural that junk food companies try to lure children through attractive schemes. Celebrities are roped in to market such products. Such strategies reinforce children's belief in these 'empty foods'.
- The excessive amount of sugar present in junk foods causes insulin levels to remain high and metabolic problems occur thereafter.