Fast, (or junk), food is very popular, with young children, and adolescents. Frequent consumption of this type of food, is associated with negative impacts, on nutrition and health. Fast food meals usually, contain more calories, being higher in fat, carbohydrate and added sugar, than regular meals. Children, who regularly eat, more fattening, fast food, are generally more likely, to eat less healthy foods, in other meals. The same group of children are less likely to consume, as much fibre, milk, fruit and vegetables, as children, who do not regularly, eat fast food. The foundation for life long eating habits are laid down during childhood and adolescence, this makes junk food particularly hazardous to their well-rounded development .
Studies have shown, that fast food consumption, is linked with many dangerous precursors for obesity. Genetics, individual behaviour and environment, all play a role in obesity, but, high levels of fast-food consumption, are partly to blame. Children, who eat fast food regularly, are likely to gain several extra pounds, per year. Increased rates, of chronic illnesses are associated with fast food consumption, as are the rising rates, of diabetes, high blood pressure and stroke.
The Women’s and Children’s Health Network, consider that diet, has a significant impact on children’s study habits. High energy levels, and the ability to focus, are essential attributes, for school age children. Food which is high in sugar, ultimately deplete energy levels, and the ability to concentrate, for extended periods of time. Studies suggest that Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), the prevalence of which is increasing, (nearly 10% of children in the US are affected), is associated with high intake of sugar.
The effect of unhealthy weight gain, resulting from frequent consumption of fast food, not only impacts on the physical development of the child, but can have implications on mental health. Children, who are overweight, or obese, are more prone to suffer, from low self- esteem. Self-confidence and esteem are vital, to the balanced development, of the growing child. Low self-esteem can be the precursor to depression, which can have an adverse impact, on almost every aspect of the child’s life, and normal development.
Regular consumption of fast food may prove to be addictive. The resulting complications are wide, and far reaching, including, obesity, chronic illness, low self- esteem and depression. Performance, both at school and extracurricular activities, can be adversely affected.