What's so bad about fast food?

 Fast food may look appealing and healthy, but the reality is that most of these foods are high in sugar, salt, saturated fats and trans fats, processed preservatives, and calories while they're low in antioxidants, fiber, and many other necessary nutrients, according to Medical News Today.  Even though many fast food chains have a new focus on creating healthier menu options, this doesn't refrain from the fact that fast food items on popular chains such as McDonald's, Wendy's, Arby's, and Burger King all consist of preservatives that lack the daily nutrients humans need to keep a consistently healthy diet.

Photo source: Closer Magazine

A diet high in salt can increase a person's blood pressure, which also increases their chances of having a heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, or heart disease (FDA).  In addition to this, a study by the journal Appetite suggests that there's a link between a diet high in saturated fats and simple carbohydrates, which are popular in many fast food items, and a lower capacity for learning and memory.  This diet could also raise the risk of Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.  Obesity, which is the most common side effect of a fast food diet, increases a person's risk of developing a range of serious health conditions.

These facts and studies are concerning and overwhelming, and the public should be made very aware of the effects of fast food on a person's diet, body, and life.

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