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A recent survey of affluent schools in Delhi showed that more than 10% of the students suffered from hypertension and more than 25% were obese. Though there could be other reasons, experts say that for many the culprit is excessive junk food.
Changing lifestyles, increased spending power, peer pressure and lack of physical activity have contributed to a growing trend of obesity among children especially in urban areas. Though one cannot ban it, one should certainly minimize its consumption
Burgers, fries, a pizza and top it all with a cola - this is a typical meal on an evening out. Though many still blame it on the `western culture', the fact is that fast food has become an integral part of our food chain. And it's the kids and teenagers who are grabbing it. They are also the worst hit.
Since these are the growing years up to teenage diet is crucial. They need the right amount of nutrients in a balanced way. Junk food does not give this to growing children. It gives them high 'empty' calories and little else. Hence, most kids who eat this are often fat. They also have other deficiencies.
Junk food is generally associated with the food we get in fast food restaurants. It is essentially any food that acts as an anti-nutrient, which means that it is not balanced and does not provide nutrition. It is typically high in calories with little or no minerals and vitamins. Worse, it is processed or prepared at temperatures that can even make it hazardous over time. In children excess junk food can cause
Obesity which itself leads to other complications
Diabetes
Hypertension
Food allergies or even asthma
Inhibits growth
Affects the immune system
Certain emotional and psychological problems are also associated with an unhealthy diet.
It's not just western food that we can scoff at, our Indian "samosa" and "chaat" could be equally damaging. Food should be taken in the natural form or at least as close to that as possible." Blame it on highly stressful lifestyles, less time and lack of physical activity, the so-called convenient cuisine has taken its toll on our children's health. Though we cannot ban it, we can certainly make it an occasional treat for our children rather than the staple diet. However in the long run, it pays to junk that junk food. |
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