Fast food is notorious for being high in fat and sodium, both of which contribute to health problems and complications. Frequent consumption of fast food can lead to obesity, high blood pressure and heart disease. Restaurants that serve fresh ingredients are a better and healthier choice, but if fast food is your only option, order small portions and try the healthier items offered on the menu.
Weight Gain and Obesity
Foods high in fat are also high in calories. Eating more calories than what your body uses in a day leads to weight gain and obesity and increases your risk of coronary artery disease, high blood pressure and diabetes. One meal at a fast food restaurant can exceed 50 percent of your caloric needs -- even when you choose a smaller portion -- so reserve visits to these establishments for an occasional treat.
High Cholesterol
Eating high fat foods increases your blood cholesterol levels. Saturated fat and trans fats, commonly found in fast foods, can increase your LDL cholesterol. LDL, the "bad" cholesterol, causes plaque build-up in your arteries that can lead to coronary artery disease and stoke. Clogged arteries can lead to a heart attack and even stroke. Limit fried foods when eating fast food and avoid restaurants that still use trans fat to cook their food.
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure, 140/90 mm Hg or higher, causes the heart to work harder than normal. It increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, congestive heart failure, atherosclerosis and kidney failure, says American Heart Association. High blood pressure is caused by high sodium intakes and unhealthy weights. It is recommended that you consume less then 2,000 mg of sodium per day, 1,500 mg of sodium if you are older than 51. One fast food meal can easily exceed your daily allowance of sodium.
Heart Healthier Choices
If you do choose to eat fast food, make healthier choices and order the smaller portions instead of the large or value size. Many chain fast food restaurants offer sides such as small salads, apple slices and reduced-fat yogurt -- choose one of these instead of french fries or onion rings for a heart-healthier meal. Avoid fried chicken pieces or sandwiches and order grilled chicken in its place. Regular single-patty burgers are lower in calories, fat and sodium than cheeseburgers or double patty burgers. Hold the mayo and other creamy sauces to further reduce fat, calories and sodium.
