Fast food can be fatal, not just fattening! Learn from experts how many times a month it's right to eat.

News Topical, Digital Desk : In today's fast-paced life, fast food has become a part of our daily routine. Foods like pizza, burgers, Maggi, and chow mein may taste delicious, but doctors say that eating them in large quantities gradually harms the body from within. A recent case from Amroha has raised questions about fast food. A 16-year-old girl died after repeatedly eating fast food items like pizza, burgers, Maggi, and chow mein. This incident has raised questions about whether fast food can be so harmful that it can lead to death. To learn more about this, we spoke with Dr. Subhashish Majumdar, Senior Director of Gastroenterology at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali, and tried to answer some questions related to fast food.  

Can fast food really be fatal?

According to doctors, consistently eating fast food increases the risk of obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure , and heart disease manifold. These foods contain trans fat, refined carbohydrates, excessive salt, and sugar, which disrupt the body's metabolic processes. If this condition persists for a long time, it can lead to life-threatening problems like heart attack and stroke.

Pizza, Burger, Maggi or Chowmein – Which is more dangerous?

The doctor clarified that the issue isn't the specific food itself, but rather its quality and frequency. Pizza and burgers are high in calories and saturated fat , while Maggi and chow mein are high in sodium and refined flour. All of these put a strain on the digestive system and increase inflammation. Eating them regularly can be equally harmful.

How does fast food harm the body from within?

Fast food reduces the number of good bacteria in the intestines, weakening the digestive and immune systems. Too much salt affects the kidneys and causes high blood pressure. Trans fats and unhealthy oils cause fat to accumulate in the liver, leading to fatty liver. According to doctors, this type of food also affects the brain and can cause fatigue, irritability, and lack of focus in the long run.

Mental health also affected

Few people know that eating too much fast food can also affect mental health. Research shows that excessively processed food can increase problems like depression and anxiety. This is due to nutritional deficiencies and sudden fluctuations in blood sugar, which affect brain function.

How much fast food is right to eat?

Doctors recommend making fast food an occasional choice, not a habit. Eating it in limited quantities once or twice a month is relatively safe, provided the rest of the time you eat a balanced home-cooked meal. Children and young people need to be especially vigilant, as habits formed at an early age can lead to serious illnesses later in life.

It is also important to know

Fast food certainly provides instant energy and a sense of taste, but its long-term consumption can be dangerous for the body. Doctors believe that correct information, a balanced diet, and moderation are the best defenses. Prioritizing health along with taste is a pressing need today.

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