The impact of fast food on children by Tejaswini Ramkumar

Why did I choose this topic?

1074694_2 — 2024-12-09 06:03:57 UTC

I chose to research the impacts of fast food on children because of the rise in health problems in America. These go beyond just physical problems and can affect a child in their day-to-day activities.

What I knew:

1074694_2 — 2024-12-09 06:08:17 UTC

High amounts of calories, fats, sugar, and salt in fast food contribute to health risks in children
Children with a consistent intake of fast food have a higher risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and heart problems
There is an increase in the marketing and availability of fast-food
Fast food often lacks vegetables that give a child improved cognitive skills. Poor nutrition means reduced brain function.
Sodium and fats can make kids feel tired or sluggish while too much sugar makes them hyperactive.

What I wanted to find out:

1074694_2 — 2024-12-09 06:08:40 UTC

How does regular consumption of fast food affect a child's ability to concentrate and perform academically?
How does eating fast food affect a child’s social relationships and interactions?
How does a diet high in fast food contribute to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression in children?
What are the physical consequences of children eating fast food as they go through puberty?

What I found out:

1074694_2 — 2024-12-09 06:17:04 UTC

Fast foods are often lacking in nutrients such as iron causing deficiencies in children. These deficiencies affect their ability to develop at a normal pace and have lower academic outcomes.
Fast food can lead to physical issues which often lead to a lower self-esteem in children. This in turn leads to mental disorders and isolates many children. Studies have found links to fast food and aggressive or rule-breaking behavior.
The excessive consumption of fast food can have effects on teen puberty. The high fat can lead to early puberty, by triggering hormones in the body faster in life.