Fast Food And Obesity – What’s The Connection And How Can You Break It?

There seems to be a definite connection between fast food and obesity. The fast food chains will deny it of course, or blame it on their customers, but the association is there. And it’s a problem Americans need to address.

So, what’s so special about fast food? As it turns out, fast food has some true advantages . . . in the short term. The food is hot and it tastes good. Quite simply, people enjoy eating it more than they do many other kinds of food. However, this is one of the links between fast food and obesity.

Another advantage of fast food is, well, it’s fast. Not only that but it’s convenient – easily found. What other kind of food can you go out and pick up ready to go at a moment’s notice? You don’t have to cook, shop, or even wash dishes. Just toss the bag in the trash. You’re saving all kinds of time here.

You can eat fast food and obesity is the furthest thing from your mind as you chow down.

In fact, fast food is even a socially accepted custom. Children’s birthday parties are held at fast food restaurants. People meet here after sporting events. We’re encouraged by society in general and the custom is touted by tantalizing commercials. Fast food and obesity are never linked in these commercials, by the way.

Scientists have made it their business to study fast food and obesity issues. Some say fast food is as addictive to the human body as heroin. This is of interest since the average American eats away 4 helpings of fast food French fries and 3 fast food hamburgers every week!

Researchers have found people start to crave the sugar, fat, and salt of fast foods. Many different lab studies have demonstrated sugar addiction in rats, for example. One study determined that the rats experienced withdrawal symptoms when sugar was taken away. Because of soft drinks, shakes, and other treats offered, fast food and obesity are connected once again.

Fast food also signals the body to have changes in hormones. These changes make it nearly impossible to control eating. After people eat fast food for a period of time they gain weight. Then they become resistant to leptin, which affects appetite.

Addiction sets in when you crave a second fast food meal after having one already that day. The fast food will cause your blood sugar to go very high and then very low. You’ll want more. You may deny yourself, but without your fast food, you may feel symptoms of weakness and shakiness. This is how fast food and obesity are linked.

The quantity of fast food Americans are eating is an issue of great concern. Fast food and obesity statistics bear this out.

Americans have gotten used to the Super Sized portions. And even though a single fast food meal has enough fat and calories for the entire day, statistically there’s a good chance you’ll eat a second fast food meal during the same day. Or if not you’ll probably eat something else before the day is out.

With about 1/3 (one-third) of all American adults over 20 being obese, fast food and obesity need to be studied more closely. As you take yourself or your family to the nearest fast food haven for dinner, please think twice.

How about only going once or twice a month instead of several times a week? It’s important to take this connection between fast food and obesity seriously. You’ll live longer and enjoy life more because of your good health if you do.