From convenience to consequence - how fast food is damaging our health

A long time ago, humans were hunter-gatherers, relying on fresh, minimally processed foods like fruits, vegetables, grains, meat, and nuts. These diets were nutrient-dense and naturally balanced. Over time, agriculture, food technology, and large-scale processing have shifted our diets toward ultra-processed foods - formulations made mostly from industrial ingredients, additives, refined sugars, and unhealthy fats.

Using the NOVA classification, foods range from unprocessed to ultra-processed, with the latter including sugary drinks, packaged snacks, instant noodles, and ready-to-eat meals. Research shows that frequent consumption of ultra-processed foods is associated with non-communicable diseases such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, mental health problems, and fertility issues.

While completely avoiding ultra-processed foods is difficult, raising awareness, choosing minimally processed options, and focusing on foods closer to their natural state can help protect our health and shift modern dietary habits back toward nutrient-rich eating.

(Photo: Vincent de Mees)