A new study shows that Americans accumulate calories in one meal a day just by eating junk food.
Is there garbage?
The average American adult eats four meals a day, one of which consists entirely of junk food.
Researchers at The Ohio State University found that adults across the country consume up to 500 calories a day on non-nutritious foods.
This total accounts for nearly a quarter of their daily calorie intake and about one-third of their daily added sugars.
"It's only when you actually see it that you realize the severity of the impact. Snacks contribute to the intake of a meal for the food we eat, but in reality it is not a meal. Christopher Taylor, a professor of medical nutrition at the university's School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences and senior study author, said.
"You know what dinner will be: one protein, one or two side dishes. But if you eat the same meal as you snacking, it's completely different, usually not more carbohydrates, sugars, proteins, not more fruits, and fewer vegetables.
Studies have found that adults across the country consume up to 500 calories of non-nutritious foods throughout the day.
"So it's not a full meal. ”
Just a few months ago, another study found that the average telecommuter consumes 800 calories a day while taking 3,500 fewer steps.
Now, it seems that all adults have a problem with snacking.
Researchers at Oregon State University found that nearly 24,000 Americans surveyed over the age of 30 are switching to unhealthy snacks, accounting for 19.5 to 22.4 percent of their total energy intake.
While they overwhelmingly choose convenience foods that are rich in carbohydrates and fats, as well as sweets, adults also consume alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including sugary drinks, protein, milk, and dairy products.
Studies have found that snacks provide the equivalent of a meal for the food we eat, but it's not actually a nutritious meal.
Some people claim to eat fruits, grains, and vegetables themselves, but those who do so make up only a very small percentage of the surveyed population.
To correct the excessive amount of food that Americans prepare for themselves, Taylor recommends choosing snacks based on the lack of daily nutritional needs.
"We think about what to bring for lunch and what to do for dinner. But our snacks don't have such a plan. So you're at the mercy of what's available in your environment," he said.