Experts warn that regular junk food consumption impairs nutrient absorption, causing deficiencies and negatively affecting health (1✔ ✔Trusted Source
Nutrition Guidelines and Recommendations
Go to source). National Nutrition Week is observed annually from September 1 to September 7. The theme this year is ‘Nutritious Diets for Everyone'. A nutritional deficiency occurs when the body doesn't get enough of a nutrient from food or has trouble absorbing it.
‘ Did You Know?
The global fast-food market was valued at over $700 billion in 2021, with consumption rising yearly. #junkfood #nutrient ’
Junk foods typically lack the necessary vitamins, minerals, and fiber that facilitate proper digestion and nutrient absorption. The global fast-food market was valued at over $700 billion in 2021, with consumption rising yearly. #junkfood #nutrient ’
Deficiencies can affect digestion, and bone growth, cause skin disorders, anemia, dementia, nervous system damage, and more.
“Consuming junk foods regularly can significantly hinder micronutrient absorption, leading to nutrient deficiencies. Processed and packaged foods often contain high amounts of sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, which can displace essential vitamins and minerals,” Dr Narendra Singhla, Lead Consultant – Internal Medicine at the CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, told IANS.
Junk foods often contain phytates, oxalates, and lectins, which can bind to minerals like zinc, iron, and calcium, inhibiting their absorption levels.
Why Junk Food Disrupts Nutrient Balance?
Similarly, “the high sugar content in junk foods can interfere with the absorption of vital nutrients like calcium and magnesium, which are crucial for bone health,” Dt. Divya Gopal, Consultant – Dietician & Nutritionist, Motherhood Hospitals, Banashankari, Bengaluru, told IANS.Advertisement
The deficiencies in vital micronutrients can lead to fatigue, weakened immunity, and impaired cognitive function.
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“A diet dominated by processed and junk foods can lead to inflammation in the gut, further impairing the body's ability to absorb essential micronutrients,” Gopal said.
To maintain optimal health, it's crucial to reduce junk food intake and opt for a balanced diet, focusing on whole, nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
Reference:
- Nutrition Guidelines and Recommendations - (https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/php/guidelines-recommendations/index.html)
Source-IANS