We are so mad about fast foods that simply the thought of it makes our mouth water. People, youths to be particular, eat fast foods to such an extent that it causes different kinds of problems among them without any prior realizations.

Inhabitants of the city areas (Dhaka in particular) spend more on fast food a year than they do for movies, books, magazines and newspapers. City dwellers are shelling out a significant amount of money on burgers, fried chicken, and the like even without knowing about the health hazards associated with fast food. Such mad obsession with fast food is harming adults and children alike.

The other day I was having a conversation with a 10-year-old boy. We were talking about our favourite dishes. That child shared, “I don’t like to have rice as staple rather I love burgers with extra cheese. Most of the time I eat burger, sandwich or pizza for lunch despite the fact that my parents ask me to stop buying junk food.”

Well, many people underestimate how bad a fast food meal can be for their health. With so many components of typical fast food fare being fried or greasy, it doesn’t take long for the calories and fat to add up. Most fast food items are very high in sodium and cholesterol as well. On top of that, these meals contain very little fiber, vitamins and other nutrients the body needs to properly function.

According to different studies and experts fast food may take a heavy toll on your overall health. First of all, many fast foods and drinks are loaded with carbohydrates and, consequently, a lot of calories. Your digestive system breaks carbs down into sugar (glucose), which it then releases into your bloodstream. Your pancreas responds by releasing insulin, which is needed to transport sugar to cells throughout your body. As the sugar is absorbed, your blood sugar levels drop. When blood sugar gets low, your pancreas releases another hormone called glucagon. Glucagon tells the liver to start making use of stored sugars. When everything is working in sync, blood sugar levels stay within a normal range. When you take in high amounts of carbs, it causes a spike in your blood sugar. In this way fast food can cause serious health hazards.

According to a doctor, “Fast food contains trans fats (manufactured fat with no extra nutritional value). Often found in fast food, trans fats are known to raise LDL cholesterol levels. Trans fats may also increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Apart from these, children may suffer from obesity because of excessive intake of fast food. As a result overall physical and mental growth of the children may get hampered to a great extent.”

Moreover, fast foods are a significant reason behind obesity. Several studies have found that children having fast foods regularly are more vulnerable to weight gain. Considering all the afore-mentioned harmful impacts, we should think twice before eating junk foods.

(The writer is a foodie.)