In under-developed and developing countries, a majority of the population is suffering from financial problems. They incline towards cheap and convenient food options for sustenance. Being common in the daily diet of people, it causes serious threats to human health in different ways. Cheap food products often contain unhealthy additives that result in food poisoning, diarrhoea and other food-related diseases.
The recent shift towards mass production and cost-cutting measures in the food industry has resulted in high demands for cheap foods in the market.
Due to their affordability, people are consuming it in large amounts along with excessive salt, refined sugars, artificial flavours and unhealthy fats that are harmful to our health. From students to working professionals, the palatability, low prices and long shelf life have made cheap and easily available foods their priority. Considering the adverse effects of consuming low-cost foods and emphasising the importance of making informed choices is crucial for our health.
Various health issues are on the rise due to the excessive consumption of cheap food products. The cheap and easily available foods are mostly calorie-dense and nutrient-poor, which leads an individual to overeating and gaining weight. This overeating and unnecessary weight gain is referred to as obesity. According to a study, excessive consumption of cheap foods has resulted in rising obesity rates globally. Not only does it cause weight gain, it is also responsible for various other chronic diseases such as Type 2 Diabetes, heart stroke, certain types of cancer, skin rashes and other cardiovascular diseases.?
Despite the fact that cheap foods are high in calories, they lack nutrients as a whole. This lack of nutrients harms our body on unimaginable levels and as a result, people consuming cheap foods are overfed but are undernourished. A portion of whole food contains vitamins, minerals, calcium and antioxidants in proper quantities.?
However, these vital nutrients are lacking in highly processed foods, which we refer to as cheap foods. Prolonged consumption of these nutritionally deficient foods can cause bone density issues, improper bowel movements and weakening of our immune system.
Cheap foods are laden with saturated fats, trans fats and sodium in high quantities, which are harmful to our cardiovascular health. Consuming fats regularly can also cause an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes, clogged arteries and elevated cholesterol levels. Other cardiovascular diseases can also be a possibility because of the combination of unhealthy fats, whereas excess amounts of sodium can lead to hypertension. Apart from fats and sodium, cheap foods also contain artificial additives and preservatives.?
These added ingredients are a major cause of improper digestive system. Highly processed meals are often low in fibre which makes them difficult to digest. Food indigestion, constipation and irregular bowel movements are serious issues that result due to overconsumption of highly processed foods. The artificial sweeteners and flavour enhancers present in those foods also harm our body by disrupting the natural balance of our gut and causing gastrointestinal disorders. Not only harming our physical health but excessive intake of these highly processed cheap foods can also impact our mental wellbeing.?
Researchers have stated that diets rich in unprocessed foods are associated with an increased risk of anxiety and depression.?The exacerbation of mood disorders and hindering of brain function are caused due to consumption of foods that lack essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B and antioxidants.
Millions of people have been lured into the harmful dietary trap with the convenience and affordability of cheap foods. While becoming increasingly aware of the serious health issues related to these processed options, it is crucial to prioritise our well-being. By making informed choices and opting for nourishing and whole foods, we can safeguard our health and promote a healthier society.
About the author: Ashwin Bhadri is the Founder and CEO of Equinox Labs. All views/opinions expressed in the article are of the author.?