What Does Junk Food Do To The Body! ?

 

Consumption of junk food

Junk food refers to highly processed foods that are typically high in calories, sugars, unhealthy fats, and low in essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and fiber. These foods are often convenient, inexpensive, and readily available, making them a popular choice for many people. Common examples of junk food include fast food items like burgers, fries, as well as packaged snacks like chips, candies, and sugary drinks.

Consequences of Consuming Junk Food:

1.      PhysicalHealthEffects:

·         Weight Gain and Obesity: Junk food is often high in calories and unhealthy fats, leading to weight gain and obesity when consumed regularly. Excess weight increases the risk of developing chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer.

·         Nutritional Deficiencies: Junk food is typically low in essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which are important for maintaining overall health. Regular consumption of junk food can lead to nutritional deficiencies, weakening the immune system and increasing the risk of infections and other health problems.

·         Digestive Issues: Many junk foods contain additives, preservatives, and artificial ingredients that can disrupt digestion and cause gastrointestinal problems such as bloating, gas, and indigestion. The lack of fiber in junk food also contributes to constipation and other digestive issues.

2.      MentalHealthEffects:

·         Mood Swings: The high levels of sugar and unhealthy fats in junk food can cause fluctuations in blood sugar levels, leading to mood swings, irritability, and fatigue. These fluctuations can also affect concentration and cognitive function, making it difficult to focus and perform tasks effectively.

·         Depression and Anxiety: Research suggests that a diet high in junk food may increase the risk of developing depression and anxiety disorders. Poor nutrition can impact neurotransmitter levels in the brain, affecting mood regulation and contributing to mental health problems.

·         Addiction: Junk food, particularly foods high in sugar and salt, can trigger the brain's reward system, leading to cravings and addictive behavior. Over time, this can lead to a cycle of overeating and dependence on unhealthy foods, further compromising physical and mental well-being.

3.      CognitiveImpairment:

·         Reduced Brain Function: High intake of junk food has been linked to cognitive impairment and decreased brain function. The lack of essential nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants in junk food can impair cognitive processes such as memory, learning, and decision-making.

·         Increased Risk of Neurological Disorders: Some studies suggest that a diet rich in junk food may increase the risk of developing neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease and dementia later in life. The inflammatory and oxidative stress caused by unhealthy food choices may contribute to the progression of these conditions.

4.      BehavioralProblems:

·         Hyperactivity and Poor Attention: Junk food, especially those containing artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, has been associated with hyperactivity and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children. These additives may disrupt neurotransmitter function in the brain, leading to behavioral problems and difficulty concentrating.

·         Aggression and Irritability: A diet high in junk food has been linked to increased aggression, irritability, and behavioral problems in both children and adults. The excessive consumption of sugary and processed foods can lead to blood sugar spikes and crashes, exacerbating mood swings and aggressive behavior.

5.      SocialandEmotionalImpact:

·         Social Isolation: Individuals who frequently consume junk food may experience social isolation and feelings of alienation. Unhealthy eating habits can lead to low self-esteem, body image issues, and reluctance to engage in social activities, impacting overall quality of life and well-being.

·         Guilt and Shame: Many people experience feelings of guilt and shame after indulging in junk food, especially if they are trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle or manage their weight. These negative emotions can contribute to disordered eating patterns and a cycle of binge eating and restriction.

6.      Long-TermHealthConsequences:

·         Chronic Diseases: The cumulative effects of consuming junk food over time can increase the risk of developing chronic diseases such as hypertension, stroke, and certain types of cancer. The combination of poor nutrition, inflammation, and oxidative stress contributes to the development and progression of these conditions.

·         Shortened Lifespan: Studies have shown that a diet high in junk food is associated with a shorter lifespan and decreased overall life expectancy. The negative impact on physical health, coupled with the effects on mental well-being, can significantly reduce quality of life and longevity.

 

More than 40% of people suffer from obesity and it is just a number of one problem that junk food caused. The consequences of consuming junk food extend beyond physical health to encompass cognitive function, behavior, and emotional well-being. By recognizing the harmful effects of junk food and making conscious choices to prioritize nutritious foods, individuals can take proactive steps to safeguard their mental and physical health for the long term.

 

To help people with any problems you can join us or donate. We are HEEALS and  we believe that by starting small and working with one community at a time, we can begin to make changes that will spread gradually throughout India, all the while working hard to create and maintain a self-sustaining society. 

 

 

 

 

Email : communications@heeals.org

whats app: +91-7981316660

written by volunteer-coordinator Kenenbaeva Janyl.

Hand Hygiene: Privilege or Necessity? Hand Hygiene Day 2024

Hand Hygiene: Privilege or Necessity? Hand Hygiene Day 2024

-Aarohi Ghosh.

If you washed your hands today, you are luckier than the 2 billion people in the world who lack access to safe water. Most of us do not think twice before washing our hands, and none of us should have to. Basic hygiene should not be a luxury, but a basic aspect of our lives to maintain well-being.

“Power of Hand Hygiene” is the theme for Hand Hygiene Day this year, emphasizing how a small act can save lives and keep fatal diseases at bay. According to the World Bank, simply promoting better hygiene practices can be the most cost-effective method to reduce diseases. Handwashing can prevent about 30% of diarrhea-related sicknesses and about 20% of respiratory infections. It is even estimated that washing hands routinely potentially prevents up to 1 million deaths every year.

But how do germs spread so quickly? They are circulated when we touch our eyes, noses, or mouths or prepare and eat food with unwashed hands. Not covering the nose or mouth while sneezing can spread respiratory droplets and be highly detrimental.

Contaminated hands easily pass on germs that cause gastrointestinal and respiratory infections which cause serious harm, especially to young children, the elderly, and those with weak immune systems.

The COVID-19 pandemic played a key role in reminding us the importance of this habit, and that we must continue to integrate it into our lives regardless. Before having meals, after using the restroom, while preparing food, and after caring for animals or patients are key times to practice handwashing. The lack of hand hygiene contributes to numerous healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) as well. These are infections contracted at healthcare facilities when one is being treated for other conditions and harm patients, visitors, and workers, thereby increasing costs. This increases not just monetary costs, but psychological and emotional costs also since the risk of HAIs causes increased stress and anxiety among patients. As per WHO, appropriate control measures can reduce HAIs by 70%.

As mentioned earlier, the lack of hand hygiene is a problem that affects a person both physically and mentally. It breaches an individual’s inalienable right to live a dignified life. The increased risk of acquiring diseases at a young age impacts a child’s overall development, learning, and even economic opportunities later on. The importance of health, dignity, and prosperity in one’s life cannot be ignored.

Various myths surrounding the idea of hand hygiene can also affect how effectively we perform this action. Wearing gloves does not eliminate the need to wash our hands. Bacteria multiply rapidly in moist environments under gloves and minuscule tears can expose the skin to various surfaces. Washing hands with alcohol-based sanitizers with up to 60% alcohol content can be an alternative to handwashing but still does not eliminate all germs. Also, hot water does not reduce pathogens, since the temperature of water does not affect this process.

Moreover, this process needs to be done thoroughly for 20 seconds to be beneficial. Firstly, wet your hands with clean running water and apply soap. Next, rub the soap and spread it across your palms, the backs of your hands, between the fingers, and under the nails. Lastly, rinse and dry. Sing or hum your favourite song so that you don’t get bored! Increasing awareness is the first step to change. Public health campaigns, school programs, workshops, or even circulating a simple infographic poster on social media can help spread the message.

As per a report by WHO, improving access to water, sanitation, and hygiene can save approximately 1.4 million lives per year. Rainwater harvesting systems can help collect and store rainwater in areas with water shortages. In fact, rooftop rainwater harvesting is common in Shillong, Meghalaya, and contributes to around 15-25% of the total water utilized by households here. Cheap solutions like chlorine tablets and plastic bottles that can be exposed to sunlight without chemicals leaching into the water should be promoted. Additionally, stricter guidelines in healthcare spaces and implementing efficient waste management systems are vital community-wide efforts to improve overall hygiene. After all, it takes about 66 days on average to develop a habit. Why not start today?

Email : communications@heeals.org

Whatssapp : +91-7982316660