Junk food or fast food has become a common part of the eating habits of children nowadays and it lacks vital nutrients for better growth. It is also known to cause weight gain and obesity
, high blood pressure, heart disease and cancer.
Apart from this, junk food can also affect the behavior and mood of children.
Studies have shown that a diet rich in fast food and sugary beverages can lead to behavioral problems, including hyperactivity, attention deficit disorder (ADD), and even depression.
“Junk food can have a huge impact on a child's mental health. Excessive consumption of junk food, which is often high in sugar, unhealthy fats, additives, can lead to nutritional deficiencies and imbalances,” Dr. Amitab Saha – Associate Director, Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences, Max Hospital Vaishali, told IANS.
"This can affect concentration, cognitive function and mood regulation and ultimately affect the overall mental well-being of the child," she said.
In a recent study published in BMJ, consuming large amounts of prepared foods, sugary cereals and fizzy drinks is linked to a higher risk of anxiety and depression.
“Caffeinated fast foods and carbonated soft drinks are high in sugar. This causes a momentary increase in sugar levels in the body and a rapid decrease in sugar levels, leading to irritability and mood swings in children,” says Dr. Hrishikesh Desai, Consultant Internal Medicine, Sir Ganga Ra Hospital. .
The expert called for reducing children's exposure to these fast food options and providing well-balanced meals for children, which should include fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins.
He also advised children to do physical activity, like playing sports outside, engaging in outdoor activities.
, high blood pressure, heart disease and cancer.
Apart from this, junk food can also affect the behavior and mood of children.
Studies have shown that a diet rich in fast food and sugary beverages can lead to behavioral problems, including hyperactivity, attention deficit disorder (ADD), and even depression.
“Junk food can have a huge impact on a child's mental health. Excessive consumption of junk food, which is often high in sugar, unhealthy fats, additives, can lead to nutritional deficiencies and imbalances,” Dr. Amitab Saha – Associate Director, Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences, Max Hospital Vaishali, told IANS.
"This can affect concentration, cognitive function and mood regulation and ultimately affect the overall mental well-being of the child," she said.
In a recent study published in BMJ, consuming large amounts of prepared foods, sugary cereals and fizzy drinks is linked to a higher risk of anxiety and depression.
“Caffeinated fast foods and carbonated soft drinks are high in sugar. This causes a momentary increase in sugar levels in the body and a rapid decrease in sugar levels, leading to irritability and mood swings in children,” says Dr. Hrishikesh Desai, Consultant Internal Medicine, Sir Ganga Ra Hospital. .
The expert called for reducing children's exposure to these fast food options and providing well-balanced meals for children, which should include fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins.
He also advised children to do physical activity, like playing sports outside, engaging in outdoor activities.
