How eating junk food regularly can make you nutrient deficient

Regular consumption of junk food, which is high in sugar, salt, and fat, can hinder the body's ability to absorb essential micronutrients, leading to nutrient deficiencies

National Nutrition Week, observed from September 1 to September 7, highlights the importance of a nutritious diet for everyone

Nutritional deficiencies occur when the body either doesn't get enough nutrients from food or has trouble absorbing them

Junk foods lack vital vitamins, minerals, and fiber necessary for proper digestion and nutrient absorption, which can lead to serious health issues like digestive problems, bone growth issues, skin disorders, anemia, dementia, and nervous system damage

Processed and packaged foods often contain high levels of sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, displacing essential vitamins and minerals

Compounds such as phytates, oxalates, and lectins in junk foods can bind to minerals like zinc, iron, and calcium, inhibiting their absorption

High sugar content in junk foods can interfere with the absorption of crucial nutrients like calcium and magnesium, essential for bone health

Excessive unhealthy fats in junk foods can impede the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K), leading to potential deficiencies

Nutrient deficiencies can result in fatigue, weakened immunity, and impaired cognitive function

To maintain optimal health, it is crucial to reduce junk food intake and opt for a balanced diet rich in whole, nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins