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Here's Why a Junk Food Diet Could Also Be Setting You up for Serious Health Problems

The health ramifications of participating in a junk food diet are serious. It could set you up for obesity and diabetes.

What if a world existed where broccoli tasted like cheeseburgers and bacon tasted like asparagus? The thought-provoking fantasy of rugged-flavored foods satisfying our taste buds is just that — fantasy. Junk food might sooth your food cravings, but a frequent phone call for pizza delivery isn’t going to help you achieve your fitness goals, even if the Internet says so. If you’ve ever considered delving into the depths of a junk food diet, you may be surprised at the health ramifications that follow suit.

Fast from fast food

The basic concept of the junk food diet is simple: consume fewer calories throughout the day by indulging in your favorite junk food items. But is it truly feasible to lose weight by eating foods loaded with saturated fat and sodium? It’s true that you need to become calorie deficient in order to lose weight, but it should be noted that a distinct difference exists between losing weight and burning fat. It should also be noted that it’s extremely difficult to achieve calorie deficiency from fast food, given its naturally high-calorie content. The fat composition of junk food simply doesn’t serve as a catalyst for weight loss, especially if combined with a high dosage of couch surfing. Junk foods are commonly comprised of high-fructose corn syrup, which the body naturally stores as fat. So, even if you lose weight as a result of your seemingly brilliant junk food diet, you may increase your overall body fat percentage and consequently lose muscle mass.

The truth about sugar

According to past studies conducted by a variety of highly respected academic institutions, foods rich in sugar have the potential to increase cognitive function. It’s no secret that sugar serves as a natural form of fuel for normal bodily functions, but it is somewhat perplexing that some examples of scientific research counteract sugar-consumption recommendations from health agencies. Sugar is a popular component of several heavily marketed energy drinks, which makes it no surprise that that research touts its ability to improve brain function. Still, it’s not a healthy long-term decision to frequently overindulge in junk food loaded with sugar content, especially sugar of the unnatural variety. As previously mentioned, it’s best to stay away from high-fructose corn syrup, in addition to other artificial sweeteners. Overconsumption of sugar can lead to several negative outcomes, such as obesity and diabetes.

Don’t fool yourself

Diet fads come and go at a rate similar to cars breezing past the overpass on the freeway. Rather than trying to chase something you can’t catch, it’s best to simply enjoy your favorite junk foods on an occasional basis while also maintaining a healthy diet. The junk food diet may enable you to lose weight, but it won’t help you burn fat. Even though foods like pizza and cheeseburgers are high in protein, they’re insufficient in vitamins and nutrients. If you suffer from some form of lachanophobia—the fear of vegetables—invest in a daily multivitamin to ensure that you consume a healthy level of nutrients. In sum, it’s not wise to partake in any form of the so-called junk food diet. It’s merely a myth that could leave you feeling guilty without pleasure.

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