Junk food is deadlier than what it was 30 years ago, finds study

Craving for fast food and junk is something we cannot say no to. We are as guilty as you are.

What are the most common triggers that make you eat junk? A hectic workday, a nasty argument with your loved one or just a binge Netflix session with friends – the way pizza and french fries comfort you in such situations, nothing else can.

But, there is one big reason you should cut down on your consumption and we suggest you do so right away. Apart from the fact of how unhealthy and low in nutrition they are, junk food also contains far more calories in them as compared to what they used to serve us 30 years ago! Shocked? A new study conducted threw light on the same.

A new study conducted by experts in Boston University, USA, analysed the link between fast foods and the rise in obesity over the past 30 years. The researchers observed that compared to the past, the portion size and the number of calories per plate had risen remarkably, which in turn gave rise to unhealthy habits and lifestyle. The same was also observed for the sodium content present in processed and fast food options, which again, posed a risk for cardiovascular health.

For this, researchers observed the menus for the top 10 chain restaurants and compared the graphs. It was seen that between 1986 and 2016, the number of starters, side dishes and main course options multiplied by a whopping 226%. Multiple options available at your favourite fast food place does not sound so appetizing now!

Of all these, the most startling change was observed in the dessert category. The number of calories and sugar content in them increased sharply, by upto 40 Kcal per serving which is not at all healthy.

This is extremely risky for kids, teenagers and young adults who like the easy eating option propagated by fast food chains. A dinner dish, supported by a beverage (soda or fizzy drink) increases the total calorie intake needed in a day and also leads to other lifestyle-related diseases. Believe it or not, a single serving of eating out makes it for the total 45% calorie requirements needed by you in a day which is not supported by any nutritional value too.

What you really need to know is that junk food cravings are in reality pointing to an underlying issue – which in most cases is stress. When you crave for junk food, it is a clear indication that you are deficient in nitroge; or when you need nothing but salty, carb-laden food to satiate your hunger pangs, you are likely to suffer from a deficiency of chloride and silicon levels. So, yes, your cravings are not so simple as binge eating and the main thing you need to do is make up for the lost nutrients and quit junk food altogether!

While we think when it comes to fizzy drinks and sodas, we can always switch it up for a lemonade or a smoothie, quitting junk is not so easy. However, you can always look for healthy alternatives. Look for options that have a little nutritional value to it and do not soak up so much oil. Always prefer homemade, if you can and if you must, look for the air-frying options which are definitely than deep frying foods.