Junk Food, Junk Food

These products may also be popular with consumers because they are widely available, require little preparation, and are easy or especially fun to consume. Junk food is associated with health problems including obesity, heart disease, Type 2 diabetes and dental cavities. Problems with fast food may not be apparent to children, hence advertising aimed at children has come under criticism.

For example, fast food in North America, such as as hamburgers and french fries from companies like McDonald's, KFC and Pizza Hut, are often perceived as junk food, whereas similar meals supplied by more up-market outlets such as California Pizza Kitchen or Nando's may not be, despite often having the same or worse nutritional content.

Other foods such as white rice or roast potatoes are not considered junk food despite having limited nutrients compared to whole grain foods. Similarly, breakfast cereals may be regarded as healthy, but may have high levels of sugar, salt and fat.

The detrimental effects "empty calories" may outweigh the benefits of the unsaturated fats. Junk foods may be high in sodium, which causes blood pressure to be temporarily higher; this may be a health risk for people who already have high blood pressure.

Source: Wikipedia > Junk Food