The Astounding Truth About Why Americans Are So Unhealthy | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Health and Wellness

The Astounding Truth About Why Americans Are So Unhealthy

The way we eat is killing us. Something has got to change.

8869
The Astounding Truth About Why Americans Are So Unhealthy
geeksaresexy.net

It's no surprise that Americans are known for being unhealthy eaters. It's proven that we consume far too much sugar, starch, cheese and red meat and not enough fruits and vegetables. For example, could you imagine eating the bacon cheeseburger with pickles and ranch on a donut shown above? Me either. But plenty of Americans enjoy food just like that on a daily basis.

Studies have been done showing effects of all this unhealthy eating; more of the country becomes obese, the people begin to exercise less; we’ve heard it all. However, what you haven't heard is that it may be partly the fault of all the companies who sell the food. The Guardian published an article explaining that the companies are selling ridiculously unhealthy food because they are worried about business. Quantity over quality. They focus all on the money and selling the food rather than making good quality food for their customers.

The average American citizen does not purposely eat greasy, fatty foods every day; it's just what's available to them. It's easy to stop by McDonald's and pick up a Big Mac for a few bucks on your way to work. It's convenient and quick, so people fall into the trap of eating these foods every day, and the companies get more and more business.

However, if fast food companies were more focused on producing slightly less greasy, sugary, unhealthy foods, the people would still be just as willing to pay. In other words, Americans don't think to themselves “well, there's a super unhealthy delicious fast food place there, and a healthier delicious place there, I'll go to the unhealthy one!” They go to the unhealthy places because they're cheaper and quicker, not because the want to eat unhealthy food.

But for many people living in low-income areas, unhealthy fast food may be the only option. Lots of Americans can't afford to go to the supermarket every day and buy supplies for a healthy homemade dinner, let alone dine at a high-end restaurant. They are basically forced into eating unhealthy food. They need more options; they need healthy options that are tasty and cheap.

So if those fast food places were healthier, Americans would still enjoy them and be able to afford them. Plus at the same time, we wouldn't be known for our unhealthy eating habits.

Unfortunately, it's not that easy. Companies who sell unhealthy food sell it because people buy it. There's a large demand for fast food, so therefore companies produce a large supply of it. If we want restaurants and fast food places to become healthier, we have to make a change. Companies won't just start selling healthier food; there has to be a demand. In order for a change to be made, the people need to refuse to buy the unhealthy food, and they need to demand healthier food. This may seem hard to make happen, but when people are educated and informed, they will stand up for what they believe in. So stand up for what you believe in, and hopefully one day America won't be known as the unhealthy, obese country.
Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Taylor Swift in orange dress playing a moss-covered piano on stage with bright lights.

A three-and-a-half-hour runtime. Nine Eras. Eleven outfit changes. Three surprise songs. Zero breaks. One unforgettable evening. In the past century, no other performer has put on an electric performance quite like Taylor Swift, surpassing her fans ‘wildest dreams’. It is the reason supporters keep coming back to her shows each year. Days later, I’m still in awe of the spectacle ‘Miss Americana’ puts on every few days in a new city. And, like one of Taylor’s exes, has me smiling as I reminisce about the memories of the night we spent together.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

24010
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
Students walking on a sunny college campus with trees and buildings.

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

10022
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

7269
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments