Fast food less healthy now than 30 years ago

New York: Despite the addition of healthy foods such as salads and sprouts to the menu, fast food is less healthy today than it was 30 years ago, and is increasingly contributing to obesity, say researchers. The study, led by Boston University, demonstrates that the calories, portion sizes, and sodium content overall have worsened (increased) over time and remain high.

“Given the popularity of fast food, our study highlights one of the changes in our food environment that is likely part of the reason for the increase in obesity and related chronic conditions over the past several decades, which are now among the main causes of death,” said lead investigator Megan A. Mc Crory, from the varsity.“Our study offers some insights on how fast food may be helping to fuel the continuing problem of obesity and related chronic conditions,” McCrory added.

For the study the team examined changes offered by 10 of the top fast-food restaurants over the 30-year period from 1986 to 2016. They found that the total number of starters, desserts and side dishes increased by 226 per cent, or 22.9 items per year. Calories in all three categories increased significantly, with the largest increases in desserts (62 kcals per decade), followed by starters (30 kcals per decade). (IANS)

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