The harmful effects of fast food on health and society | Protect your family

The increasing popularity of fast food is raising serious medical concerns, as the harmful effects of fast food a tangible reality threatening public health. Despite repeated warnings about its dangers, calls are growing for decisive community intervention to halt the spread of these processed foods, which are a major cause of chronic diseases and weakened family bonds. The sight of people heading to fast-food restaurants even after feasts and family gatherings has become commonplace, a worrying indicator reflecting rapid behavioral and dietary changes within society.

The roots of food transformation and its regional and international impact

Historically, the emergence of fast food is linked to the mid-20th century in Western countries, where it arose as a response to the fast-paced lifestyle and women's entry into the workforce. With the development of globalization and economic liberalization, these chains have spread to various countries around the world, including the Arab region. It is no longer simply a matter of changing the type of food consumed, but has transformed into a consumer culture that has overshadowed traditional meals. On both regional and international levels, this phenomenon has caused enormous economic and health burdens. World Health Organization reports indicate an unprecedented rise in obesity and type 2 diabetes rates, placing significant pressure on healthcare budgets in various countries.

A danger threatening the colon and digestive system

Doctors and specialists in various fields confirm that the repercussions of this dietary pattern extend beyond obesity, impacting vital bodily systems. In this context, Dr. Gamal El-Din Moselhy, a general surgeon, revealed a direct link between the appearance of colon polyps and the change in dietary habits over recent decades. He explained that these polyps are small growths that appear in the wall of the large colon, warning that the decline in natural fiber consumption has contributed to their local spread, after they were previously only common in Western countries.

Dr. Gamal Moselhy

A silent threat to the kidneys and their functions

On the other hand, Dr. Mazen Shqeir, a consultant in urology, andrology, and nephrology, emphasized the pivotal role of diet in preventing kidney stones. He explained that the type of food consumed directly affects urine composition, recommending drinking two to three liters of water daily to dilute salt concentration and avoid dehydration. Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Mutawakkil, a consultant in internal medicine and nephrology, concurred, stressing that preventing chronic kidney failure begins with adhering to a healthy and balanced diet. Al-Mutawakkil pointed out that processed foods, salt, and sugars gradually damage kidney function, urging adherence to the components of the food pyramid and an increased intake of fruits and vegetables.

Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Mutawakkil

Osteoporosis: Another consequence of fast food

Regarding joint health, orthopedic consultant Dr. Sabri Bajis warned of the lack of essential bone-building elements in fast food, such as calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D. He stated that excessive consumption of soft drinks and processed meats disrupts calcium balance, increasing the likelihood of osteoporosis and recurrent fractures. He added that excess weight doubles the pressure on the knees and lower back, noting that children and adolescents are the most affected due to their weaker bone structure resulting from malnutrition. He advised increasing the consumption of dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and fish, getting sun exposure, and exercising regularly to strengthen the skeletal system.

Psychological repercussions and alarming family disintegration

The damage wasn't limited to the physical aspect. Pediatric consultant Dr. Mohamed Maysara Abdel Hamid confirmed that excessive consumption of fast food has become a serious health problem that cannot be underestimated. He attributed the appeal of these meals to their wide range of prices, ease of delivery, and appealing taste, despite their complete lack of essential vitamins and minerals for healthy physical and mental development. He pointed out that children's reluctance to eat home-cooked meals weakens family bonds and called for increased nutritional awareness campaigns in schools and homes.

Dr. Muhammad Maysara

A silent social gap and emotional eating

On the social dimension of the phenomenon, social worker Jaafar Al-Eid warned of the profound repercussions of the spread of fast food culture on the family structure. He argued that the absence of the shared family meal has deprived families of a vital space for dialogue and communication. He explained that eating has gradually transformed from a social ritual that brings families together into an isolated, individual practice that reinforces social distancing. For his part, psychologist Faisal Al-Ajyan addressed the behavioral repercussions, pointing out that the high sugar and fat content stimulates the reward centers in the brain, creating a momentary feeling of happiness that drives teenagers to repeat consumption. He concluded by saying, "Today, we are facing an increasing trend of emotional eating, where many resort to fast food as a way to escape daily psychological pressures.".

Faisal Al-Ajyan