By Seep Arora
in 
Junk foods are processed foods that are low in nutritional value and are typically rich in salt, sugar, and fat. However, they are deficient in other essential nutrients, including protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals. Globalisation in India has caused a shift in people’s diets from home-cooked dishes and toward processed sugary snacks and drinks. This shift has contributed to an increase in the risk of developing health problems in adults, but more especially in children. Regular junk food consumption contributes to health issues such as an increased risk of obesity, emotional and self-esteem issues, cardiovascular disease, and other chronic health issues. Obesity may occur, blocking arteries and laying the groundwork for an eventual heart attack. It’s also been hypothesised that eating junk food has the same effect on the brain as taking addictive substances. An addiction to junk food may lead to rejection of better dietary alternatives such as fruits, vegetables, and salads, resulting in more significant malnutrition. Vitamin A and C insufficiency and mineral deficiencies of magnesium and calcium promote the development of deficiency diseases, osteoporosis, and dental cavities due to increased sugar consumption.
While interviewing the mothers of 959 children, a study based in Mumbai found that 80 per cent of children lived within five minutes of a junk-food store. More than half of them consumed junk food daily, and 56 per cent had chronic and/or acute malnutrition. Furthermore, junk food consumption began at an early age, with more than half of the children under three eating chips and cookies regularly. Parents are under societal pressure to offer their children money to buy snacks in and after school because of their busy family lives and the allure of junk food. Since these foods are cooked so that they are visually appealing and delightful, children are chemically programmed to want more. The problems caused by junk food consumption may be reduced by substituting it with nutritious and healthful foods. Therefore, we suggest that you attempt to monitor the dietary patterns of your child and their junk food consumption more mindfully.
Moreover, you might also consider the benefits of instilling the importance of eating right in your kids from an early age as nutritional habits and behaviour are developed and founded during childhood and may remain with them throughout their lives. Nutrition education, particularly in schools, plays a critical role in improving understanding and knowledge within children. School canteens and family dinners are essential in educating children on what should be consumed daily and what is to be saved for special occasions. For that reason, menus of school canteens may be shifted to offer nutritional food to encourage children to choose healthier alternatives.