Editorial . . . . .
The day by day a growing number of fast-food outlets especially in the commercial hub of Jammu and Kashmir has added to the metropolitan tinge besides food entertainment though not necessarily to satisfy hunger. There was a time when KFC, burgers, pizzas, soft drinks, and other junk food were unknown, as was the culture of eating more than a breakfast and two home-cooked meals.
The whole concept of ‘eating’ has taken on new dimensions, and our eating culture has shifted dramatically from ‘local’ to ‘global,’ resulting in a shift in our culture, identity, and way of life. More so, we don’t know how much we need to eat, often eating when one is not hungry. Many people wonder whether they eat too much or too less. It is hard to know the right amount that needs to be taken to satisfy the requirements of the body.
Obesity has become a prevalent occurrence as a result of the invasion of fast food/junk food, particularly among youngsters, and a lack of physical activity. And, with the addition of more fast-food restaurants that aren’t just serving junk food, it’s necessary to be informed of the numerous health problems that can’t be ignored. Our food habits have a close association with culture and lifestyle rather than nutrient value and health concerns.
Not only fast food and junk food but even our home-cooked food can be unhealthy. High levels of fats and sugar are not only unhealthy but addictive making it hard for people to choose the more healthy food. It sets an unhealthy eating pattern, especially among children who develop a liking for fast food/junk food. Fast foods are laden with growth hormones, chemically enhanced vegetables; sugar-filled soft drinks whose colour and taste are artificially enhanced.
Some scientists believe that eating foods high in fat and sugar can create changes in your brain and body, making it difficult to avoid eating fast food. And, because of the wonderful hormones that play a role in appetite regulation, it’s just going to get more addictive, with one’s appetite rejuvenating at the mere notion of fast food, even if one isn’t hungry.
The difference between a fast-food dinner and a home-cooked supper is the sheer amount of calories and fats consumed in one sitting. And the recommended daily intake of fats and calories can be had in one sitting at a fast-food outlet. It may contribute little or no nutrient value but instead gives excess calories, sugar, and fat and thereby not a proper way for balanced and healthy nutrition. The resultant effect is, slowly and with age, one becomes a health-issues customer.
The ill-effects of fast food are myriad. Over a period of time, fast food can lead to an increased risk of illness and various lifestyle-associated diseases. Studies have also suggested that a rich fat meal can increase one’s stress level. Then there are more risky diseases related to the heart, blood vessels, liver, diabetes, peptic ulcers, and many more.
A regular dosage of fast food means that an unhealthy diet deficient in critical nutrients cannot replace the requirement for a well-balanced diet. After all, a finger-licking reward may cause more harm to one’s health while seeking various forms of enjoyment and entertainment, resulting in a customer with health problems.
Therefore, Jammu and Kashmir health administration departments should take frequent samples on regular basis from these fast food shops and impose heavy fines or penalties if found in violation of standard prescribed rules and regulations to keep away the bad or ill effects of fast food on its consumers. Besides this, regular awareness programmes should be organized in schools and colleges to educate the future generation, who are our tomorrow.