Effect of Fast Food on Diabetes

Fast food industry has changed the lifestyle of billions around the globe. High calorie on-the-go munchies act as a catalyst to increase the likelihood of diabetes and worsening it. Moreover, people munching fast food on a regular basis are at an increased risk of developing conditions such as hypertension, obesity, high cholesterol, digestive problems, liver problems and heart diseases.

Nutrient-rich foods reduce the likeliness of getting affected by aforementioned health problems. An appropriate diet plan or plan of action for diabetics should not have excess of fast foods that raise caloric intake greatly. An ideal diet for a diabetic should have lean meat, whole-grain bread or buns, lots of vegetables, low fat potatoes and less sugar foods/drinks.

Effects of Fast Foods

• Fast foods do provide energy dose for the moment, but expose you to long-term consequences affecting your health.  Excess of sugar, fat, sodium and empty calories cause serious health problems for diabetics.
• Foods rich in carbohydrates can escalate the blood glucose concentration beyond the normal range. Hyperglycaemia can cause diabetic coma or ketoacidosis.
• Diabetics with cardiovascular problems are at greater risk of developing high blood pressure, peripheral artery disease and stroke.
• Cholesterol deposition can clog narrow blood vessels.
• Diabetics should keep a track of their caloric intake. Consuming more calories than required contributes to the cause of obesity.
• Munching fast foods in excess is clearly a poor choice, which increases the risk of chronic asthma, arthritis and cancer.
• Health complications due to ample intake of fast foods also include respiratory failure and bone fractures.

Recommendations for Diabetics

• Diabetics should monitor and limit the amount of carbohydrates to keep blood sugar level within normal range.
• Diabetics should limit physical activity during the phase of high blood sugar.
• Diabetics should eliminate fat-rich sauces, condiments and calorie enriched additives to reduce the overall calorie intake.
• Weight loss or weight management initiative can help nullify the effect of fast foods.
• Nutrient rich healthy foods such as tomatoes, berries, apples, green leafy vegetables, fish and yoghurt are recommended for diabetics.
• Healthier food options such as salads and grilled meats are recommended as substitutes to junk foods such as potato fries and hamburgers.
• Diabetics can derive health benefits from high carbohydrates in fast food buns, breading, regular soft drinks and sweet desserts.

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