In the face of todays competition for the ever-diminishing resources of convenient, safe and healthy affordable food, people often find it difficult to critically analyze their food choices. Consumers need to become more aware of their dietary habits and the food sources available to them. This paper will discuss the importance of developing a healthy, sustainable diet, provide a summary of current dietary trends, discuss the advantages and disadvantages of fast food, and provide an in-depth analysis of the overall dietary habits of those living in the USA.
Studies have determined that the diets of many people today are often governed by convenience, cost, and / or pleasure. Convenient means having access to processed, prepared and packaged food that is not necessarily healthy. Cost often dictates the type of food that can be purchased, while pleasure is often derived from the taste and texture of the food. Obviously, these factors do not always result in healthy, nutritional choices.
In terms of dietary trends in the USA, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is recommended by nutritionists and health professionals. Yet, despite these recommendations, many Americans still consume large portions of processed foods and fast food. In fact, over the past few decades, fast food intake has increased, with one study finding that an average of 30% of the diets of adults and 40% of the diets of children consisted of fast food.
There are, of course, advantages to fast food. Most notably, it is often cheaper than healthier options, it is faster to get, and requires minimal preparation. Unfortunately, it is also often very high in fat, sugar, and sodium and low in essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Additionally, a diet composed mostly of fast food can lead to obesity, heart disease, and diabetes.
In general, the dietary habits of Americans are concerning. The vast majority of people are consuming too much sugar, fat and salt, and not enough vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Moreover, those living in poverty often have even less access to affordable, healthy food, meaning that their diets are often worse.
Therefore, it is essential for people to become more conscious of the food which they consume and the choices that are available to them. Healthy and sustainable food choices should be prioritized over convenience and cost. With the right nutrition and diet, individuals can improve and maintain their overall health.
