Almost half of all American adults suffer from at least one or more chronic illnesses, and the problem is attributed largely to poor decisions with their diets. Fast food has long been a staple in the American diet and making healthier choices when it comes to the food people eat is not as easy as it should be to promote better health. As a nurse, you will likely encounter countless patients throughout your career suffering from illnesses caused by poor eating habits.
Despite growing awareness of it, fast food is easily the cheapest and most readily available type of food option available to the general population. Due to its accessibility, fast food continues to cause dietary harm to children, adolescents, adults, and senior citizens alike.
As the healthcare professional who interacts the most with patients, educating them on better diet choices is crucial. In addition to providing medical intervention, providing patient education can help you make a positive impact in your community and improve health outcomes.
In this Fast CE For Less guide will cover some of the most important aspects of the effect fast food has had on the diet in the country, the overall changes in diet preferences, how fast-food leads to health problems in children and adults, and important dietary recommendations to improve health.
The Changes in Meal Consumption Over the Last Fifty Years
Over the past fifty years, meal consumption in the US has shifted dramatically. In the 1970s, most families cooked meals at home using fresh ingredients. Fast forward to today, and fast food has become a dominant part of the American diet. This shift is due to various factors, including busier lifestyles, the convenience of fast food, and aggressive marketing by fast food chains. The rise of dual-income households and the increase in single-parent families has also contributed to this trend. These societal changes have made fast food an appealing option for many, leading to a significant increase in its consumption.
The Use of Preservatives and Pesticides in Food
Fast food is cheap, has a pretty long shelf life, and often contains harmful substances. Fast foods often contain high levels of preservatives and pesticides. Preservatives are added to prolong shelf life, making food stay fresh longer. Pesticides, used in growing ingredients, can remain in the food. While these chemicals help keep costs down and food available year-round, they come with health risks.
Studies have linked some preservatives and pesticides to health issues like allergies, hormonal imbalances, and even certain cancers. Understanding these risks is important for making healthier food choices. Nurses can educate patients about the potential dangers of consuming too many processed foods with these additives.
An Increase in Calories per Serving and Fats
Fast food portions have grown significantly over the years, leading to a rise in calorie intake per serving. Today’s fast-food meals are larger and more calorie-dense than those from decades ago. This increase in portion size means more fats, especially unhealthy trans fats and saturated fats, are being consumed.
High-calorie, high-fat diets contribute to weight gain and obesity. They also increase the risk of heart disease and other health problems. By understanding how fast-food portions and calorie content have changed, individuals can make more informed dietary choices and avoid excessive calorie and fat intake.
Changes in the Food Pyramid and Dietary Guidelines
The food pyramid, once a staple in American dietary guidelines, has undergone significant changes over the years. Initially, the pyramid emphasized grains, suggesting 6-11 servings per day while recommending fewer servings of fruits and vegetables. However, as research evolved, it became clear that the high intake of grains and low intake of fruits and vegetables contributed to various health issues.
The current dietary guidelines, reflected in MyPlate, encourage a more balanced approach, emphasizing half the plate be filled with fruits and vegetables. Despite these recommendations, many Americans still do not consume enough fruits and vegetables, partly due to the convenience and prevalence of fast foods. Understanding these changes and their implications can help nurses guide patients toward better eating habits and improved health outcomes.
Health Issues in Children Caused by Fast Food Consumption
Fast food consumption has serious health implications for children. The easy availability and high appeal of fast foods have led to an increase in health issues among young people. Two of the most significant concerns are obesity and type 2 diabetes, both of which can have long-lasting effects on a child’s health and quality of life.
Obesity in Children
Obesity rates among children have tripled since the 1970s. According to the CDC, about 19.7% of children and adolescents in the United States are obese. This condition is often caused by consuming high-calorie fast foods combined with low physical activity. Obesity in children can lead to various health problems, including:
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Joint problems
- Breathing issues such as asthma and sleep apnea
- Mental health problems like depression and low self-esteem
Preventing obesity involves promoting a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables and encouraging regular physical activity.
Type 2 Diabetes in Children
Type 2 diabetes was once rare in children but is now increasingly common due to poor dietary habits and rising obesity rates. Early signs and symptoms of type 2 diabetes in children include:
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Slow healing of wounds
- Unexplained weight loss
- Frequent urination
- Increased thirst
If not managed properly, type 2 diabetes can lead to severe complications like heart disease, kidney damage, and vision problems. Educating children and their parents about the importance of a balanced diet and regular exercise is crucial for prevention and management.
Health Issues in Adults Caused by Fast Food Consumption
Fast food consumption affects adults as well, leading to a range of chronic health conditions. The high fat, sugar, and sodium content in fast food contributes significantly to heart disease, atherosclerosis, and hypertension.
Heart Disease
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. Fast foods, which are often high in unhealthy fats and sodium, contribute to the development of heart disease. Regular consumption of these foods leads to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Additionally, high cholesterol levels and obesity, often linked to fast food diets, further exacerbate the risk.
Atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis is a condition where the arteries become clogged with fatty deposits, known as plaques. These plaques can restrict blood flow or break apart, causing blood clots. Fast food consumption, particularly those high in trans fats and saturated fats, accelerates this process. Symptoms can include chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue, but often atherosclerosis progresses without noticeable symptoms until it causes serious health issues like heart attacks or strokes.
Hypertension
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is another serious health issue linked to fast food consumption. The high sodium content in fast foods increases blood pressure, putting extra strain on the heart and blood vessels. Over time, this can lead to severe health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage. Managing blood pressure involves reducing sodium intake, eating a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight through regular physical activity.
Recommendations to Improve Health
Improving health and reducing the risks associated with fast food consumption requires adopting healthier lifestyle habits. Here are some recommendations to help individuals make better dietary choices and promote overall well-being:
- Self-care practices: Take time to relax, manage stress, and ensure mental well-being.
- Increase physical movement: Engage in regular physical activities like walking, running, or any sport.
- Eat fewer fast foods: Limit the intake of fast foods and choose healthier options when dining out.
- Prepare meals at home: Cooking at home allows for better control over ingredients and portion sizes.
- Consume at least 4 servings of fruits and vegetables daily: Incorporate a variety of fruits and vegetables into your diet to ensure adequate nutrient intake.
By following these recommendations, individuals can significantly improve their health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases associated with fast food consumption. Nurses can play a key role in educating patients about these practices, helping them make informed choices for a healthier life.
If you have not completed your nursing continuing education requirements to renew your license and want to learn more, online nursing CEUs offered by Fast CE For Less can help.
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