What is Fast Food and How Can it be Good for Your Heart?

Fast food is a type of food that can be prepared quickly and easily and sold in restaurants and bars as take-away. Common menus at fast-food outlets include fish and chips, sandwiches, pitas, burgers, fried chicken, fries, onion rings, chicken nuggets, tacos, pizza, hot dogs, and ice cream. Fast food has become a global phenomenon due to its convenience and affordability. However, it has also been associated with unhealthy eating habits.

The term 'fast food' dates back to at least 1951 and refers to the new trend of restaurants offering quick meals. Fast food is also known as 'junk food', such as pizza, hamburgers, chips, candy, soda etc. Fast-food outlets can be stalls or kiosks which may not provide shelter or seating, or fast-food restaurants (also known as quick-service restaurants). Fast food is usually prepared with processed ingredients that are formulated to achieve a certain flavor or consistency and preserve freshness.

Despite its reputation for being unhealthy, fast food can actually be good for your heart with a little planning and willpower. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), fast food can be part of a healthy diet if you make the right choices. For example, opting for grilled chicken instead of fried chicken or choosing a salad instead of fries can help reduce your calorie intake. Additionally, avoiding sugary drinks and opting for water or unsweetened tea can help reduce your sugar intake.

In most fast-food operations, menu items are usually prepared with processed ingredients prepared in a central supply facility and then shipped to individual outlets where they are reheated, cooked (usually microwaved or fried) or assembled in a short time. The fastest form of fast food consists of pre-cooked meals prepared for the customer's arrival (roast chicken from the Boston market, Little Caesars pizza etc.). Fast food has become an integral part of our lives due to its convenience and affordability. However, it is important to remember that it can be part of a healthy diet if you make the right choices.

By opting for grilled chicken instead of fried chicken or choosing a salad instead of fries you can reduce your calorie intake and make healthier choices.