An engaging health education lesson titled “The effects of fast food on a growing body. Preventing non-communicable diseases” was held at Örken East Kazakhstan Regional Scientific and Methodological Center for Informatization and Education Development of Education Administration of East Kazakhstan region. The lesson was delivered in an interview format by an expert from Shygys Preventive Medicine Center Zhanar A. Mukhtarova. The lesson aimed to promote awareness about non-communicable diseases prevention and targeted at students from grades 5 to 11.

Zhanar A. Mukhtarova began the discussion by introducing the concept of fast food. It originates from the English word “fast”, denoting food that is prepared and served quickly using standardized methods. She traced the roots of fast food back to Ancient Rome, where flatbreads with meat and vegetables served as quick meals. However, modern fast food originated in the United States at the beginning of the 20th century, when Americans began using a conveyor approach to cooking. In 1948, the McDonald brothers developed the first drive-in service, launching the global popularity of chains such as McDonald’s and Burger King.

The expert outlined several reasons for the popularity of fast food:

• Speed: In today’s fast-paced society, people often need to have a quick snack.
• Affordable price: Fast food is budget-friendly, especially for students and low-income families.
• Convenient locations: kiosks (outlets) and fast food restaurants are easily accessible - from bus stops to shopping malls.
• Taste: Flavor enhancers and spices make the dishes especially appealing.
• Advertising: Eye-catching signs, promotions, and integration into cartoons attract young consumers.

Hamburgers, French fries, hot dogs, pizza, doner kebabs, burritos and even carbonated drinks were mentioned among the popular types of fast food.

Zhanar A. Mukhtarova thoroughly discussed both the advantages and disadvantages of fast food. The advantages include cooking speed, accessibility, and variety. However, the disadvantages raise serious health concerns, especially for a growing organism:

• High caloric content: one burger can contain around 600-700 kcal, and with French fries and soda - up to 1,500 kcal per meal. Regular consumption can lead to excessive weight gain and obesity.
• Low nutritional value: Fast food is low in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, while high in salt, trans fats, and preservatives.
• Disease risks: Overconsumption of fast food increases cholesterol levels, stresses the heart and liver, and can also lead to the development of diabetes and other non-communicable diseases.

The expert also shared interesting global insights: in Japan and Korea, fast food is adapted to local traditions using rice and seafood, and in France, McDonald’s serves baguettes and coffee. French fries remain the most popular food in the world.

To reduce the health risks associated with fast food, Zhanar A. Mukhtarova recommended including healthy ingredients into meals, such as salads or vegetables (for example, replacing French fries with carrots). She stressed that fast food can be consumed occasionally, but daily nutrition should be based on healthy foods like whole grains, eggs, water, natural juices, and stewed fruits.

The lesson was a real discovery for the students, who not only learned about the history and popularity of fast food, but also about its impact on health. Zhanar A. Mukhtarova encouraged students to think about their nutrition and commit to a healthier lifestyle. The participants thanked the guest for the informative conversation and noted that the knowledge gained would help them make more informed nutritional decisions.

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/vko-bilim/press/news/details/1071465?lang=kk