Instead of providing an energy boost, junk food can cause a lack of energy. For a short period of time, sugar (a type of carbohydrate) makes people feel full of energy, happy and upbeat, as the body uses it for energy. Junk food doesn't contain the nutrients your body needs to stay healthy. As a result, you may feel chronically fatigued and lack the energy you need to complete daily tasks.
High levels of sugar in junk food stress metabolism; when you eat refined sugar, the pancreas secretes large amounts of insulin to prevent a dangerous rise in blood sugar levels. Fast foods and junk food are high in fat, sodium and sugar, which can lead to obesity and a variety of concomitant health problems, such as diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis. When choosing between a healthier option and junk food, keep in mind that including just one healthy meal a day in the typical American diet could reduce the body's overall stress and inflammation. Mindless junk food in front of the TV or in the car can also lead to overeating and increase calorie intake.
Junk food contains large amounts of fat, and as fat builds up in the body, you'll gain weight and could become obese. High levels of fat and sodium in junk food and fast food can contribute to heart disease by increasing blood cholesterol levels and contributing to the accumulation of arterial plaque. Because junk food doesn't contain the proteins or complex carbohydrates the body needs to maintain consistent blood sugar levels, blood sugar levels will drop suddenly shortly after eating. In addition, the rapid rise in blood sugar from eating junk food that is high in refined carbohydrates and added sugars can cause an increase in insulin and cause a rapid drop in blood sugar.
Following a poor quality diet high in junk food is linked to an increased risk of obesity, depression, digestive problems, heart disease and stroke, type 2 diabetes, cancer and premature death. If you eat junk food, you can make simple dietary changes to improve your energy and control your weight. If you want to enjoy junk food from time to time but are concerned about the impact on your health, take a look at your general health habits. While there are a growing number of healthier fast food options, most fast food can still be classified as junk food.
While it may be tempting to rely on vending machines to overcome a rough patch in the afternoon or to buy fast food on the way to the meeting, these options add up over time and can negatively affect your weight and energy levels. Over time, high levels of sugar and simple carbohydrates in junk food can lead to type 2 diabetes.
