Jydell Hill

Professor Metenko

November 6, 2024

 

Description: In this assignment we did an argumentative essay. I argued “how does fast food affect health?” The essays argue that while fast food  may be a quick solution for meals, the long-term health consequences far outweigh the short-term convenience and cost savings.

DRAFT:               

How does fast food affect health?

In today’s fast-paced world, fast food is a big part of many people’s diets because it’s quick and convenient. But eating it often can seriously harm your health. There is an estimate that between 20-30% of obesity cases can be attributed to frequent fast food intake. Fast food is
loaded with unhealthy fats, sugars, and salt, which can lead to obesity, heart problems, and other chronic illnesses. As we keep turning to these quick meal options, it’s important to understand how bad they can be for our health. During quarantine, like many others, I found myself spending more time at home with limited physical activity. The stress and uncertainty of the situation led to changes in my eating habits, often turning to comfort foods for solace. I doordashed every single day eating at fast food restaurants. With gyms closed and outdoor
activities restricted, my usual exercise routine was disrupted. These combinations of factors gradually led to weight gain and obesity over the months of quarantine.

Fast food has become a staple in modern diets due to its convenience, affordability, and taste. However, the growing consumption of fast food has raised concerns about its impact on public health. Some of the concepts are obesity, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, trans fats, sodium, hyperglycemia, metabolic syndrome. Some of the current states are the health interventions, public health recommendations, nutritional awareness, rising consumptions, and health risks. Health interventions: many countries are making rules to help people eat healthier. They are putting calorie counts on menus, limiting harmful fats, and promoting better foodm choices. Public health recommendations: Experts say to eat less fast food and more whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Also, staying active helps reduce the risks linked to fast food. Nutritional awareness: Many people know fast food is bad, but they don’t know exactly how bad it can be if eaten often. However, more awareness and better food labels are
helping people make healthier choices. Raising consumptions: More people around the world,
especially in cities, are eating fast food more often. This is common among kids and teens, which is causing more obesity. Many studies show that eating fast food regularly is bad for your health. Foods that are high in calories but low in nutrients can make you gain weight and cause
changes in your body that lead to long-term diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers.

Type 2 diabetes is also closely linked to fast food consumption. The high levels of refined sugars and simple carbohydrates found in many fast food items can cause spikes in blood sugar levels. Over time, this can lead to insulin resistance, where the body’s cells become less
responsive to insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar. Insulin resistance is a precursor to type 2 diabetes, a chronic condition that can lead to serious complications if not managed properly. Metabolic syndrome is a bundle of conditions that occur together, increasing the risk of
heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. These conditions include increased blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol. Regular consumption of fast food can contribute to the development of metabolic syndrome by promoting weight gain, unhealthy cholesterol levels, and elevated blood pressure.

In response to the growing public health concerns, many countries have implemented health interventions aimed at reducing the consumption of fast food and promoting healthier eating habits. For example, some governments have introduced regulations requiring fast food restaurants to display calorie counts on their menus. This change allows consumers to make more informed choices about what they eat. Additionally, there have been efforts to limit the use of trans fats in food products and to promote the consumption of healthier alternatives.

Public health recommendations emphasize the importance of a balanced diet that includes a variety of whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. These foods provide essential nutrients that support overall health and help prevent chronic diseases.
Experts also recommend regular physical activity as a key component of a healthy lifestyle. Exercise helps to maintain a healthy weight, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and improve overall well-being. Nutritional awareness is crucial for making healthier food choices. While many people are aware that fast food is not the healthiest option, they may not fully understand the extent of its negative impact on health. Educational campaigns and improved food labeling can help bridge this knowledge gap, empowering individuals to make better dietary decisions. For example, clear labeling of calorie content, fat, sugar, and sodium levels can help consumers compare different food options and choose those that align with their health goals.

The rising consumption of fast food, particularly among children and adolescents, is a worrying trend. Young people are often attracted to fast food due to its taste, convenience, and aggressive marketing. However, the long-term health consequences of frequent fast food
consumption during childhood can be severe. Early exposure to unhealthy eating habits can set
the stage for lifelong health issues, including obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.

In conclusion, while fast food offers convenience and taste, its frequent consumption poses significant health risks to consumers. My experience during quarantine highlighted how quickly unhealthy habits can lead to weight gain and obesity, especially when combined with limited physical activity. As we move forward, it’s crucial to be mindful of our dietary choices and prioritize healthier options for ourselves. Public health interventions and recommendations aim to guide us towards better eating habits, but ultimately, it’s up to us to make informed decisions about what we consume. If we choose the right food to eat and stay on an active eating pattern, you will see a change in body weight. By choosing whole foods and staying active, we can reduce the adverse effects of fast food and improve our overall well-being.