New Delhi, Sep 7 (IANS) Regular consumption of junk food rich in sugar, salt and fat hampers the absorption of micronutrients in the body and leads to nutrient deficiencies, impacting overall health, experts said on Saturday.

National Nutrition Week is celebrated every year from September 1 to 7. The theme this year is 'Nutritious Food for All'.

Nutritional deficiency occurs when the body does not get enough nutrients from food or has trouble absorbing them.

Junk food usually lacks essential vitamins, minerals and fiber, which facilitate proper digestion and absorption of nutrients. The deficiency can affect digestion and bone growth. It can lead to skin disorders, anemia, dementia, damage to the nervous system and more.

Dr Narendra Singhal, Chief Consultant, Internal Medicine, CK Birla Hospital, told IANS, “Regular consumption of junk food can hinder the absorption of micronutrients, leading to nutrient deficiencies in the body. Processed and packaged foods often contain high amounts of sugar, salt and unhealthy fats, which can displace essential vitamins and minerals.”

Junk foods often contain phytates, oxalates, and lectins, which can bind minerals such as zinc, iron, and calcium. This can hinder their absorption levels.

Similarly, “excess sugar in junk food can interfere with the absorption of key nutrients such as calcium and magnesium, which are important for bone health,” explains dietitian and nutritionist Divya Gopal.

In addition, the unhealthy fats found in junk food can hinder the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E and K). This can lead to deficiencies.

Additionally, junk food consumption can disrupt the gut microbiota, which plays a vital role in nutrient absorption and overall health.

“A diet dominated by processed and junk foods can lead to inflammation in the gut. This can impair the body's ability to absorb essential micronutrients,” Gopal said.

For good health, one should reduce the consumption of junk food and eat a balanced diet. One should focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains and foods rich in low-fat proteins.

–IANS

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