Facts About Eating Fast Food

Fast food is undoubtedly quick and convenient, but over-consumption can come at a hefty price. An occasional visit will not radically harm a healthy person, but frequent fast food can lead to high blood pressure, obesity and perhaps even depression. In general, fast food is loaded with fats, sodium and sugars, components that make cheaper foods more palatable. For personalized information on the eating plan that is best for you, consult a physician or a registered dietitian.

Sodium Facts

Excess salt consumption can lead to hypertension, a condition that puts you at risk for heart disease. Putting down the salt shaker may not be enough. According to a 2010 study published in "Archives of Internal Medicine," 75 percent of the sodium consumed by Americans comes from packaged and restaurant food, and fast food is a major source. The study examined meals from 11 fast food chains and found that only 3 percent of them had an acceptable level of sodium as defined by the Food and Drug Administration. Twenty percent of the meals had more sodium than the amount recommended for an entire day. If you do eat fast food, keep your salt intake low for the rest of the day.

Geographic Facts

Your attempts to keep trim can suffer if you live in a neighborhood with a high concentration of fast food restaurants and do not have access to an automobile. A 2009 study published in the "Journal of Urban Health" reported people living in proximity to fast food restaurants without a car weighed approximately 12 lbs. more than their more mobile counterparts. Researchers are not sure why this is, but it may be due to the fact that those who do not own their own cars for economic reasons may be more apt to eat at fast food outlets than more expensive restaurants in their neighborhoods.

Psychological Facts

If you are depressed, you may be eating more fast food than your non-depressed counterparts. Women between the ages of 45 and 54 with depression report a higher intake of fast food, according to a study published in 2011 in "Preventive Medicine." The researchers were not sure whether fast food consumption led to depression or vice versa. They noted that depression may lead to the development of unhealthy eating patterns, but conversely, unhealthy food choices and poor nutrient intake may be factors in mood disorders. If you have symptoms of depression that are severe or persistent, consult a qualified health-care practitioner.

Making Good Choices

Fast food restaurants are not a complete nutritional wasteland if you enter them armed with the facts about how to choose your meal wisely. To cut down on unnecessary fats, sodium and sugars, stay clear of condiments like mayonnaise, "special sauces," ketchup and pickles. Choose entrees that are broiled rather than fried, and if you are determined to have a burger, pick a single instead of a double or triple. Ask for nutritional information if you are undecided on the best choices for you. Although the requirements for mandatory labels vary among states and municipalities, many chain restaurants provide basic facts about the calories and nutrients in the foods they serve.