The eating habits of the Indian population have seen a substantial change in the last few decades. Food products that are abundant in calories but low in vital micronutrients including vitamins, minerals, fiber, and amino acids are referred to as “junk food”. Junk food consumption has boosted children and teenagers daily calorie intake by as much as 13%, according to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES 2003–2006).
One of the main causes of the growth in obesity and the emergence of chronic illnesses including diabetes, dementia, mental illness, and cancer is unhealthy eating habits.
The World Health Organization (WHO)-Global Burden of Disease report states that 645,000 deaths and 14.2 million disability adjusted life years (DALYs) in 2019 were caused by diets rich in trans-saturated fatty acids.
A diet heavy in sugar-sweetened drinks caused 242,000 deaths and 6.31 million DALYs in the same year. Trans-saturated fat-rich diets rank seventh among dietary risk factors for attributable disability adjusted life years (DALYs), whereas drinks with added sugar rank 13th.Excessive consumption of junk food might impair your overall health and wellness and reduce your capacity for physical activity.
These complications are all associated with a diet high in sugar, salt, trans- and saturated fats and with a lack of essential nutrients like fibre, vitamins and minerals.It is widely acknowledged that junk foods possess qualities that make them appealing to consumers, such as their delectable taste, affordability, and convenience. Nevertheless, if junk foods become a regular part of our diets, it can have detrimental effects on our overall well-being. To counteract this, it is advisable to prioritize the inclusion of high-fiber foods like whole grains, vegetables, and fruits in our meals.
Additionally, it is important to opt for meals that contain moderate amounts of sugar and salt, as well as foods that are rich in calcium and iron. By incorporating healthy food choices, we can contribute to the development of robust bodies and minds.
The reduction of junk food intake can be achieved at an individual level through conscious food choices, or through the implementation of government policies and health-promotion strategies. It is imperative for governments to take action by prohibiting junk food companies from targeting young individuals through advertising.
Furthermore, their assistance is required to replace junk food establishments with healthier alternatives. Researchers can also play a significant role by focusing on educating the public and promoting the benefits of healthy food options. Collaborating with young people to develop innovative solutions can further enhance these efforts. By working collectively, we can empower young individuals worldwide.
By Shabnum Showkat (Mtech Food Process Engineering) Division of Food Science and Technology SKUAST K
