Fast Food Has Become More Unhealthy Over the Past Three Decades, Research Says

Portion sizes have increased dramatically over the last 30 years at the most popular fast food restaurants in the United States, a new study says.

As per the study, the amount of calories and excess sodium has also increased among fast food offerings, stated lead author Megan McCrory, a research associate professor with the Boston University College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences.

Average portion size almost quadrupled for fast food entrees, and more than quadrupled for desserts between 1986 and 2016, McCrory and her team found.

Calories and sodium content in entrees, sides and desserts also risen significantly.

Research stated, desserts packed on an extra 62 calories per decade, while entrees risen by 30 calories every 10 years.

At the same time, sodium increased by about 4.6 percent of recommended daily value for entrees each decade, and 3.9 percent of daily value for sides.

“The portion size increase is largely responsible for the increase in calories and sodium,” said McCrory.

The National Restaurant Association responding to the new study and opinioned it has championed menu labeling “to give customers the information they need to make healthier choices for their families.

“In 2008, we launched the Kids LiveWell program to promote consumption of fruit and vegetables, lean protein, whole grains and low-fat dairy, while limiting unhealthy fats, sugars and sodium,” the association stated in a statement. “The association continues to educate members about the benefits of offering healthier menu items and participating in portion balance discussions with industry leaders.”

But the increases discovered in this research also reflect the “provocative” changes that have occurred in fast food within recent years, stated Michelle Milgrim. She’s a registered dietitian and manager of employee wellness at Northwell Health in New Hyde Park, N.Y., and was not part of the study.

These changes involve sandwiches that swap buns with fried chicken breasts, pizza crust filled with cheese, and bacon added to many menu items, Milgrim stresses.