{"id":10589,"date":"2020-10-21T18:45:03","date_gmt":"2020-10-21T18:45:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/?p=10589"},"modified":"2024-12-16T08:35:01","modified_gmt":"2024-12-16T08:35:01","slug":"western-diet","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/","title":{"rendered":"Western Diet: Does This Good Ol&#8217; American Food Contribute To The Rise Of Obesity?"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_75 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#Get_your_personalized\" >Get your personalized<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#What_Is_The_History_Of_The_Western_Diet\" >What Is The History Of The Western Diet?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#How_Is_The_Western_Diet_Impacting_Our_Health\" >How Is The Western Diet Impacting Our Health?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#Increased_Cases_Of_Obesity_And_Weight-Related_Deaths\" >Increased Cases Of Obesity And Weight-Related Deaths<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#A_Standard_Western_Diet_May_Lead_To_Metabolic_Syndrome\" >A Standard Western Diet May Lead To Metabolic Syndrome<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#Disrupts_Your_Circadian_Rhythm\" >Disrupts Your Circadian Rhythm<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#Increased_Cancer_Risk\" >Increased Cancer Risk<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#Increases_The_Risk_Of_Psoriasis\" >Increases The Risk Of Psoriasis<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#Why_Should_People_Stop_Eating_A_Western_Diet\" >Why Should People Stop Eating A Western Diet?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#Reduces_Immunity\" >Reduces Immunity<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#1_Nutrient_Deficiency\" >1. Nutrient Deficiency<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#2_Reduces_White_Blood_Cells\" >2. Reduces White Blood Cells<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#3_Increases_Sugar_Intake\" >3. Increases Sugar Intake<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#4_Increases_Salt_Intake\" >4. Increases Salt Intake<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#5_Increases_The_Consumption_Of_Trans-Fat\" >5. Increases The Consumption Of Trans-Fat<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#The_Western_Diet_And_Obesity_How_Do_They_Relate\" >The Western Diet And Obesity: How Do They Relate?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#Western_Diet_Vs_Eastern_Diet_Which_One_Is_Better\" >Western Diet Vs. Eastern Diet: Which One Is Better?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#Heart_Health\" >Heart Health<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#Lower_Trans_Fats_Equal_To_Higher_Chances_Of_Survival_And_Longevity\" >Lower Trans Fats Equal To Higher Chances Of Survival And Longevity<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#Arthritis\" >Arthritis<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#Alzheimers\" >Alzheimer&#8217;s<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#Cardiovascular_Diseases_And_Cancer\" >Cardiovascular Diseases And Cancer<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#How_To_Get_Away_From_A_Western_Diet\" >How To Get Away From A Western Diet?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#1_Leafy_Greens\" >1. Leafy Greens<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#2_Legumes_And_Lentils\" >2. Legumes And Lentils<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#3_FattyOily_Fish_And_Eggs\" >3. Fatty\/Oily Fish And Eggs<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#4_Lean_Meats_And_Poultry\" >4. Lean Meats And Poultry<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#5_Starchy_Vegetables\" >5. Starchy Vegetables<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#6_Whole_Grains\" >6. Whole Grains<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-30\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#7_Dairy\" >7. Dairy<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-31\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#8_Fruits_Nuts_And_Seeds\" >8. Fruits, Nuts, And Seeds<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-32\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#DISCLAIMER\" >DISCLAIMER:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-33\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#SOURCES\" >SOURCES:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The western diet has become quite popular all over the world. However, despite its popularity and consumption by many, health experts are cautioning people to move away from this eating plan. But why? Is the western pattern diet as bad as some claim, or are they just exaggerating the fact? Find out the adverse effects of this eating plan and why people should be careful about\u00a0 a western diet.<br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n    <section class=\"ad-single-wrapper\">\n        <div class=\"ad-single-text ad-title-wrapper\">\n            <h3 class=\"ad-single-title\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Get_your_personalized\"><\/span>Get your personalized<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n            <span class=\"ad-single-sub-title color-green\">\n                <svg class=\"icon-sparkle\" width=\"36\" height=\"21\" viewBox=\"0 0 36 21\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                    <path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\"\n                          d=\"M34.6837 0.515943C34.8247 0.835947 34.9421 1.16291 34.9891 1.48987C35.1417 2.64466 35.3179 6.51949 35.2592 7.29863C35.2592 7.53515 35.1887 7.7995 35.0243 8.01516C34.7307 8.39777 33.9791 8.4256 33.5681 8.07081C33.4154 7.94559 33.3215 7.77863 33.2745 7.61863C33.1453 7.15254 33.0396 6.68645 32.9809 6.22035C32.8165 4.81512 32.6638 3.40293 32.5581 1.9977C32.5229 1.53161 32.6051 1.05856 32.6991 0.592466C32.7695 0.244637 33.251 -0.0197144 33.6973 0.00115537C34.2257 0.0289818 34.5546 0.230723 34.6837 0.515943ZM18.6184 9.78225C18.5734 9.67557 18.5344 9.57528 18.4971 9.47956C18.4178 9.27568 18.3465 9.09257 18.2426 8.91267C16.7159 6.24133 14.2615 3.86217 11.4665 1.60128C11.1377 1.33693 10.7267 1.08649 10.2687 0.919531C10.0221 0.829095 9.52885 0.843009 9.247 0.933445C9.03562 1.00301 8.88295 1.27432 8.92992 1.42736C9.01213 1.71954 9.18828 2.01868 9.4349 2.28303C11.0555 4.02913 12.6879 5.76829 14.3437 7.50048C14.8308 8.0068 15.3395 8.50887 15.8473 9.01L15.8473 9.01001C15.9883 9.14921 16.1293 9.28833 16.2697 9.42746C16.4811 9.64311 16.7159 9.85181 16.9626 10.0466C17.2327 10.2692 17.6437 10.4014 18.0547 10.2553C18.0691 10.2501 18.0836 10.245 18.0981 10.2399C18.1097 10.2358 18.1213 10.2318 18.1329 10.2278C18.3785 10.1424 18.6184 10.0589 18.6184 9.78225ZM1.98942 20.1407C2.17783 20.1221 2.37674 20.105 2.58175 20.0875C2.99012 20.0525 3.42272 20.0154 3.84492 19.9598C6.34632 19.6259 8.84771 19.292 11.3374 18.9442C11.8776 18.8676 12.406 18.7355 12.8875 18.5824C13.5334 18.3807 13.7566 18.0954 13.6509 17.7824C13.5452 17.4694 13.1224 17.2746 12.3826 17.2676C11.8776 17.2607 11.3374 17.2676 10.8559 17.3372C7.69683 17.8102 4.5378 18.2972 1.3905 18.7911C1.03819 18.8468 0.674137 18.9442 0.404034 19.0833C-0.2771 19.4242 -0.065712 19.9598 0.803314 20.092C1.01858 20.1228 1.25262 20.1258 1.51135 20.1291C1.66195 20.131 1.82092 20.133 1.98942 20.1407Z\"\n                          fill=\"#17B991\"\/>\n                <\/svg>\n               meal plan!\n            <\/span>\n        <\/div>\n    \n        <div class=\"ad-single-text ad-desc-wrapper\">\n            <p class=\"ad-single-desc\">What's your main health goal?<\/p>\n            <a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated?flow=2228&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Western_Diet\" class=\"btn-ad btn-green\">Lose weight<\/a>\n            <a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated?flow=2228&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Western_Diet\" class=\"btn-ad btn-green\">Feel great<\/a>\n        <\/div>\n        <img class=\"ad-single-img\" alt=\"health-food\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"395\" height=\"383\" src=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/themes\/gridlove-child\/assets\/img\/ad\/health-food.webp\">\n    <\/section><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Also known as the western pattern diet or a standard western diet, this eating plan is described as being dominated by convenient and highly processed foods. But what does this mean exactly? A standard western diet is a modern-day diet that involves high consumption of refined grains, red and processed meats, desserts, sweets, and other high-sugar foods, high-fat dairy products, fried foods, as well as pre-packaged foods.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_The_History_Of_The_Western_Diet\"><\/span>What Is The History Of The Western Diet?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For anyone interested in how the western diet came about, here is a little background information for you.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">According to The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, the beginnings of the western diet can be traced to as far back as 10,000 years ago, when the aspect of agriculture and animal husbandry &#8211; the practice of breeding, farming, and care of farm animals &#8211; began. These changes gradually happened between the Neolithic (a.k.a. New stone age period) and Industrial Periods (the industrial revolution). With them came significant alterations in the environment, lifestyle conditions, and the human diet. While, for the most part, these changes altered the lives of our ancestors for the better, they brought in the side effect of food processing, which changed our diets in a bad way.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Food processing altered the following 7 crucial nutritional characteristics of the ancestral diet (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/academic.oup.com\/ajcn\/article\/81\/2\/341\/4607411\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">18<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">):<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Glycemic load<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fatty acid composition<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Macronutrient composition<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Micronutrient density<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Acid-base balance<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sodium-potassium ratio<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fiber content<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><strong>Betterme will keep you laser-focused on your weight loss journey! Nutrient-packed meal plans, fat-blasting workouts, galvanizing challenges and much more. <a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated?flow=2228&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Western_Diet\">Try using the app and see<\/a> for yourself!<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated?flow=2228&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Western_Diet\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/ezgif-2-d87c4f55258d.gif\" alt=\"western diet\" width=\"720\" height=\"405\" \/><\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Is_The_Western_Diet_Impacting_Our_Health\"><\/span>How Is The Western Diet Impacting Our Health?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you are wondering why western diets are usually considered unhealthy, it is because this eating plan has been linked to an increase in obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and other chronic illnesses.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here are the research and science behind it:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Increased_Cases_Of_Obesity_And_Weight-Related_Deaths\"><\/span>Increased Cases Of Obesity And Weight-Related Deaths<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">According to The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, in the United States alone, 65% of all adults above 20 years old are either obese or overweight, and this contributes to over 280,184 deaths per year. All related in a way or another to being severely overweight.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It should also be noted that the western pattern diet does not just affect adults. It can also cause obesity in children and teenagers, negatively impacting their lives. A study published in 2015 involving Lebanese teenagers aged 13 to 19 years old showed that all the teens who consumed a standard western diet, which was characterized by high consumption of red meat, <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/steak-and-eggs-diet\/\">eggs<\/a>, and fast-food sandwiches had an increased risk of overweight, as compared to their counterparts who ate a traditional Lebanese diet, which was characterized by a higher intake of fruits and vegetables, legumes and fish (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4635384\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"A_Standard_Western_Diet_May_Lead_To_Metabolic_Syndrome\"><\/span>A Standard Western Diet May Lead To Metabolic Syndrome<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This eating plan is said to negatively affect the Arcuate nucleus and POMC neurons, which are found in the brain. The Arcuate nucleus and POMC neurons play a role on your appetite (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.medicinenet.com\/script\/main\/art.asp?articlekey=24340\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">15<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) and regulate your metabolism and reproduction (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5669621\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">19<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), respectively. When the Arcuate nucleus and POMC neurons are damaged, it may lead to metabolic syndrome.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This syndrome is an illness caused by the combined factors of increased blood pressure, high blood sugar levels, excess body fat, especially around the waist, and abnormally high cholesterol or triglyceride levels. Once all the above clusters of conditions occur together, they then increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, and type II diabetes, thus causing metabolic syndrome (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/metabolic-syndrome\/symptoms-causes\/syc-20351916\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">16<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated?flow=2228&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Western_Diet\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Frame-4745.png\" alt=\"western diet\" width=\"1152\" height=\"648\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Disrupts_Your_Circadian_Rhythm\"><\/span><b>Disrupts Your Circadian Rhythm<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The circadian rhythm is your body&#8217;s 24 hours body clock that controls your daily schedule for sleep and wakefulness, among other things (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sleepfoundation.org\/circadian-rhythm\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). While the sleep-wake cycle can be disrupted by many things, including stress and other mental health conditions, erratic work schedules, medication, travel over different time zones, and poor sleeping habits, it has been suggested that western diet and eating late at night can lead to the same outcome (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/topics\/agricultural-and-biological-sciences\/western-diets\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">25<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Disrupted sleep and circadian rhythm lead to many metabolic issues such as:<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Reduced brain glucose disposal<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Reduced resting metabolic rate<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An impaired immune system<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Impaired pancreatic function<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hypoglycemia, insulin resistance, and more.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Poor sleep also leads to poor dietary choices (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5142605\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">7<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), which means that if you are consuming a western diet, you are more likely to reach for foods that are higher in simple refined carbs and trans fat. All of which can lead to weight gain. It also leads to increased cortisol levels in the body. An increase of this hormone in the body can increase your appetite, making you eat more, causing undesired weight gain (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.webmd.com\/a-to-z-guides\/what-is-cortisol#1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">23<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Increased_Cancer_Risk\"><\/span><b>Increased Cancer Risk<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A scientific review published in 2016 showed that people who ate on a western pattern diet significantly increased their chances of getting prostate cancer as compared to those who consumed a healthy diet pattern (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5084014\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). This diet has also been associated with an increased risk (and sometimes the reoccurrence) of other types of cancers such as the colon (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.medscape.com\/viewarticle\/562606\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">26<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), breast (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/clinical-nutrition.imedpub.com\/a-systematic-review-of-theassociation-between-dietarypatterns-and-breast-cancer-risk.php?aid=22462\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), pancreatic cancer (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nature.com\/articles\/s41568-019-0227-4?\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">9<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Increases_The_Risk_Of_Psoriasis\"><\/span><b>Increases The Risk Of Psoriasis<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease that causes your skin cells to multiply up to 10 times faster than what is considered to be normal. This then leads to red, itchy, scaly patches that mostly occur on the knees, elbows, trunk, and scalp.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A study done on mice by the University of California showed that short-term exposure to the Western diet (about 4 weeks) can induce psoriasis. However, psoriasis is not the only skin disease that can be caused by the western diet. Since this eating plan affects your skin&#8217;s immunity, it may lead to an increased risk of skin inflammation (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedaily.com\/releases\/2020\/02\/200218161720.htm\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">27<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated?flow=2228&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Western_Diet\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Frame-4668.png\" alt=\"western diet\" width=\"1344\" height=\"756\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Should_People_Stop_Eating_A_Western_Diet\"><\/span>Why Should People Stop Eating A Western Diet?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Reduces_Immunity\"><\/span><b>Reduces Immunity<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If all of the above factors have not convinced you of why people should be more careful about\u00a0 a western diet, then maybe this point will. Your body needs a healthy immune system because it protects us from illnesses by creating a barrier that stops antigens from entering the body. If by chance, the antigens get through this barrier, the immune system then acts by producing white blood cells and other chemicals and proteins to attack and destroy these foreign disease-causing substances (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.webmd.com\/a-to-z-guides\/features\/how-use-your-immune-system-stay-healthy#1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">13<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A bad eating plan is one of the quickest ways for you to ruin your immune system. Although reduced immunity is mostly related to people who live in poverty and are malnourished, a higher class of people who consume a western pattern diet are also at risk of reduced immunity (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/staying-healthy\/how-to-boost-your-immune-system\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">12<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). As per the western diet definition, this is a diet that is characterized by an increased intake of saturated and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids, reduced intake of omega-3 fatty acids, overconsumption of salt, and too much refined sugar.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While all these factors are known for their negative effects on your heart and kidney health, as well as obliterating your waistline, many people forget that these factors can severely reduce your immunity; making you susceptible to diseases.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here is how:<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Nutrient_Deficiency\"><\/span><b>1. Nutrient Deficiency<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This occurs when the body does not absorb or get from food the necessary amount of a nutrient. Malnutrition can occur in a western diet because the foods mostly consumed on this eating plan have been stripped of their nutrients. Some of the most common nutrient deficiencies include iron, iodine, Vitamin D, calcium, Vitamin B12, magnesium, and <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/vitamins\/\">Vitamin A<\/a> deficiency. Malnutrition leads to a slew of illnesses such as anemia, reduced reproductive capacity, nerve and muscle damage, dementia, eye problems, tiredness, osteoporosis, among other diseases (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/nutrition\/7-common-nutrient-deficiencies\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated?flow=2228&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Western_Diet\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Frame-4931.png\" alt=\"western diet\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1080\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Reduces_White_Blood_Cells\"><\/span><b>2. Reduces White Blood Cells<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The main and most basic function of the while blood cells is to increase your body&#8217;s immune system and target and destroy any disease-causing cells in it (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/327446\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">24<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). Obese individuals who consume a standard western diet tend to have fewer than normal white blood cells, meaning that they are not able to fight off diseases as effectively as healthier individuals. To make matters worse, whatever white blood cells they have do not act as fast as they should. Due to reduced phagocytosis capability, they take longer to fully engulf and destroy disease-causing cells and particles (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4074336\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">10<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Increases_Sugar_Intake\"><\/span><b>3. Increases Sugar Intake<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Simple sugar, such as table white sugar, is known to reduce white blood cell phagocytosis and possibly increase inflammatory cytokine markers in the blood. Cytokines are the body&#8217;s signaling molecules that mediate and regulate immunity, inflammation, and hematopoiesis (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sinobiological.com\/resource\/cytokines\/cytokine-function\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">8<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). A diet high in sugar also causes weight gain, puts you at a high risk of heart disease and type II diabetes, may increase acne and skin aging, and could lead to a higher risk of cancer and psychological struggles such as depression (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/nutrition\/too-much-sugar\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Increases_Salt_Intake\"><\/span><b>4. Increases Salt Intake<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">According to the CDC, the recommended daily salt intake per day should be less than 2300 milligrams (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/salt\/index.htm\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">17<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). Ideally, it should be no more than 1500 mg per day. However, thanks to the western diet, which is quite high in salt, most adults tend to end up consuming an average of more than 3400 mg each day (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/healthy-living\/healthy-eating\/eat-smart\/sodium\/how-much-sodium-should-i-eat-per-day\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">11<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). A diet high in salt may increase your blood pressure and further increase your risk of stroke, heart failure, osteoporosis, stomach cancer, and kidney disease.<br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated?flow=2228&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Western_Diet\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/9-5.jpg\" alt=\"western diet\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1080\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Increases_The_Consumption_Of_Trans-Fat\"><\/span><b>5. Increases The Consumption Of Trans-Fat<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Trans fat and\u00a0 saturated fatty acids are bad for your heart health. This is because they raise your LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and lower your HDL (good) cholesterol levels. An increase of LDL cholesterol in your bloodstream increases your risk of developing heart disease, type II diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/healthy-living\/healthy-eating\/eat-smart\/fats\/trans-fat\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">21<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Western_Diet_And_Obesity_How_Do_They_Relate\"><\/span>The Western Diet And Obesity: How Do They Relate?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is no secret that people who are against a western diet, such as those who adhere to a paleolithic eating pattern, state that this modern eating plan has led to a slew of civilization diseases. Some of these are diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, autoimmune diseases, Alzheimer&#8217;s disease, and many more, which were not known to our hunter-gatherer ancestors. Apart from these diseases, obesity is another undesirable side effect of the standard western diet.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Obesity is nothing new. Although it has been around for many decades, it has grown to a point where it is now considered a worldwide pandemic condition. Obesity stems from <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/can-soy-milk-make-you-gain-weight\/\">weight gain<\/a>, which occurs due to a surplus of energy intake compared to energy expenditure &#8211; eating more calories than you burn in a day. The excess calories that are not burned are then stored as fat in the body, leading to an ever-increasing waistline. Failure to curb this behavior then leads to chronic energy intake, which will make you overweight and eventually obese (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC6817492\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">14<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As seen by the western diet definition, this eating plan relies heavily on saturated salt, sugar, and refined carbs. When ingested, refined carbs are digested faster than their unrefined counterparts. They then lead to short bursts of energy, and once they are over, will require you to eat again to gain more energy. This leads to eating more than your recommended calorie intake, which eventually causes weight gain (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/refined-carbs\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">22<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When you are constantly eating, your insulin levels remain high throughout much of the day. These high levels prevent fat from being broken down for energy and are then stored in the body. If you continue to constantly eat, your stored fat levels will continue to accumulate in your body. This could also lead to the development of insulin hypersecretion and hyperinsulinemia that contributes significantly to accelerated weight gain (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC6817492\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">14<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated?flow=2228&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Western_Diet\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/11-1.png\" alt=\"western diet\" width=\"1152\" height=\"648\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Western_Diet_Vs_Eastern_Diet_Which_One_Is_Better\"><\/span><b>Western Diet Vs. Eastern Diet: Which One Is Better?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As we have seen above, the western diet, which is notorious for its high consumption of red meat, dairy products, processed and artificially sweetened foods, and salt, with minimal intake of fruits, vegetables, fish, legumes, and whole grains, has a lot of unfavorable side effects to your overall health. However, is an eastern diet, such as the <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/mediterranean-diet-food-list\/\">Mediterranean diet<\/a> any better?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unlike a standard western diet, the Mediterranean diet is characterized by a high intake of olive oil, fruits and vegetables, whole grains and cereals, legumes, fish, and nuts. Foods such as red meat, dairy products, and sweets, as well as drinks such as red wine, are usually consumed in very low amounts. This diet also relies heavily on locally grown, fresh, and minimally processed foods.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So does this Mediterranean diet have an advantage over the western diet? Yes, it does.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Studies done in Greece and other European countries have yielded the following results:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Heart_Health\"><\/span><b>Heart Health<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In Greece, a study for 44 months revealed that those who stuck to a Mediterranean diet were 33% less likely to die from heart disease and 24% less likely to die from any other causes during the period of the study. Another study, this time with patients with heart disease, showed that those who switched to an <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mediterranean<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> diet decreased their death rate by 27% (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/newsletter_article\/the-mediterranean-diet-a-model-for-americans\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">20<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Read More:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/breakfast-smoothies-for-weight-loss\/\">Breakfast Smoothies For Weight Loss- Healthy Sipping For Fat Loss<\/a><br \/>\n<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated?flow=2228&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Western_Diet\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/8-4.jpg\" alt=\"western diet\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1080\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Lower_Trans_Fats_Equal_To_Higher_Chances_Of_Survival_And_Longevity\"><\/span>Lower Trans Fats Equal To Higher Chances Of Survival And Longevity<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A study involving older adults aged 60 years and above revealed that the use of olive oil in cooking helped increase their chances of survival. These men and women could also live for longer. Another study done in over 10 European countries revealed that these men and women between the ages of 70 and 90 years old had a 23% reduction in the overall mortality rate. Those who incorporated exercise and stayed away from alcohol and tobacco increased this number to up to 50% (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/newsletter_article\/the-mediterranean-diet-a-model-for-americans\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">20<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Arthritis\"><\/span><b>Arthritis<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A small study done on patients in Sweden showed that adherence to this eating plan for three months can reduce the symptoms of arthritis (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/newsletter_article\/the-mediterranean-diet-a-model-for-americans\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">20<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated?flow=2228&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Western_Diet\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Frame-4854.png\" alt=\"western diet\" width=\"1344\" height=\"756\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Alzheimers\"><\/span><b>Alzheimer&#8217;s <\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is a progressive mental illness that causes brain cells to degenerate and die. A study done on 2258 Americans showed that consuming an eastern diet as opposed to a western one decreased the risk of Alzheimer&#8217;s disease by up to 40% (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/newsletter_article\/the-mediterranean-diet-a-model-for-americans\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">20<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Cardiovascular_Diseases_And_Cancer\"><\/span><b>Cardiovascular Diseases And Cancer<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An eight-years study done on 44,875 American men, aged between the ages of 40 to 75 years, revealed that since they were following an eastern diet none of them had been diagnosed with cardiovascular disease or cancer (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/newsletter_article\/the-mediterranean-diet-a-model-for-americans\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">20<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In light of this, the debate on the western diet vs. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mediterranean<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> diet seems to highly favor the latter. This eating plan shows a lower risk of stroke, coronary artery disease, type II diabetes, cancer, and other illnesses. Moreover, it is mostly attributed to its high levels of fiber, vitamins, omega 3-fatty acids, and moderate consumption of alcohol (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/newsletter_article\/the-mediterranean-diet-a-model-for-americans\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">20<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>BetterMe app will kick you out of the mental funk, shake off your extra weight, rid you off you energy-zapping habits, and help you sculpt the body of your dreams. Intrigued? Hurry up and <a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated?flow=2228&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Western_Diet\">change your life for the better<\/a>!<br \/>\n<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated?flow=2228&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Western_Diet\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Frame-4730.png\" alt=\"diet\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1080\" \/><\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_To_Get_Away_From_A_Western_Diet\"><\/span>How To Get Away From A Western Diet?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Following the principles of a Mediterranean diet is one of the best ways to get away from a standard western diet and improve your eating plan, overall health, and life.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here are some foods examples that you should consume to help you out:<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Leafy_Greens\"><\/span><b>1. Leafy Greens<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Such <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">collard greens, kale, bok choy, spinach, Romaine lettuce, Swiss chard, and cabbage. They are low in carbs and calories while being loaded with fiber and important micronutrients. Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts are also a great addition to your meal plan.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Legumes_And_Lentils\"><\/span><b>2. Legumes And Lentils<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These are full of protein and fiber, helping keep you fuller for longer and preventing unnecessary snacking, which causes weight gain and obesity.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_FattyOily_Fish_And_Eggs\"><\/span><b>3. Fatty\/Oily Fish And Eggs<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These are <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">low in calories, full of omega 3 fatty acids, and fantastic sources of protein.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Lean_Meats_And_Poultry\"><\/span><b>4. Lean Meats And Poultry<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Always ask for the leanest cuts of meat, as they have less saturated fats.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Read More:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/lean-meats-for-weight-loss\/\">Lean Meats For Weight Loss: Staying On Track With Your Fitness Goals Without Sacrificing Flavor<\/a><br \/>\n<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated?flow=2228&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Western_Diet\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Frame-4833.png\" alt=\"diet\" width=\"1152\" height=\"648\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Starchy_Vegetables\"><\/span><b>5. Starchy Vegetables<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Such as <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/3-day-sweet-potato-diet\/\">sweet potatoes<\/a>, carrots, corn, beets, sweet potatoes, plantains, butternut squash, and yams are a great part of a Mediterranean diet. They are amazing sources of nutrients and fiber.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_Whole_Grains\"><\/span><b>6. Whole Grains<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Such as oatmeal, quinoa, brown rice, millet, barley, and whole wheat bread and pasta. Unlike simple carbs, which are a huge part of the western diet, these unrefined carbs are naturally high in fiber and other nutrients.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_Dairy\"><\/span><b>7. Dairy<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dairy is also another huge part of the western diet. You should consider alternating\u00a0 your dairy options with plant-based milk or low-fat options.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_Fruits_Nuts_And_Seeds\"><\/span><b>8. Fruits, Nuts, And Seeds<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These should also be a part of your everyday meals.<br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated?flow=2228&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Western_Diet\" target=\"_blank\"><video autoplay=\"autoplay\" loop=\"loop\" muted=\"muted\" playsinline=\"playsinline\" width=\"777\"><source src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/ezgif.com-gif-to-mp4-2.mp4\" type=\"video\/mp4\" \/><\/video><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p><iframe title=\"Create Happines now\" width=\"770\" height=\"433\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/xLxjdQ4DYdg?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"DISCLAIMER\"><\/span><b>DISCLAIMER:<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not address individual circumstances. It is not a substitute for professional advice or help and should not be relied on to make decisions of any kind. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any medical conditions. Any action you take upon the information presented in this article is strictly at your own risk and responsibility!<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"SOURCES\"><\/span><b>SOURCES:<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/nutrition\/7-common-nutrient-deficiencies\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">7 Nutrient Deficiencies That Are Incredibly Common<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (2019, healthline.com)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/nutrition\/too-much-sugar\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">11 Reasons Why Too Much Sugar Is Bad for You<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (2018, healthline.com)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/clinical-nutrition.imedpub.com\/a-systematic-review-of-theassociation-between-dietarypatterns-and-breast-cancer-risk.php?aid=22462\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A Systematic Review of the Association between Dietary Patterns and Breast Cancer Risk<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (2018, clinical-nutrition.imedpub.com)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5084014\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A Western Dietary Pattern Increases Prostate Cancer Risk: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (2016, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4635384\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A Western dietary pattern is associated with overweight and obesity in a national sample of Lebanese adolescents (13\u201319 years): a cross-sectional study<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (2015, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sleepfoundation.org\/circadian-rhythm\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Circadian Rhythm<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (2019, sleepfoundation.org)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5142605\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Circadian Rhythm and Sleep Disruption: Causes, Metabolic Consequences, and Countermeasures<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (2016, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sinobiological.com\/resource\/cytokines\/cytokine-function\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cytokine Function<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (n.d., sinobiological.com)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nature.com\/articles\/s41568-019-0227-4?\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dietary patterns and cancer risk<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (2019, nature.com)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4074336\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fast food fever: reviewing the impacts of the Western diet on immunity<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (2014, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/healthy-living\/healthy-eating\/eat-smart\/sodium\/how-much-sodium-should-i-eat-per-day\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How much sodium should I eat per day?<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (2018, heart.org)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/staying-healthy\/how-to-boost-your-immune-system\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to boost your immune system<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (2020, health.harvard.edu)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.webmd.com\/a-to-z-guides\/features\/how-use-your-immune-system-stay-healthy#1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to Use Your Immune System to Stay Healthy<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (2009, webmd.com)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC6817492\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How Western Diet And Lifestyle Drive The Pandemic Of Obesity And Civilization Diseases<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (2019, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.medicinenet.com\/script\/main\/art.asp?articlekey=24340\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Medical Definition of Arcuate nucleus<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (2018, medicinenet.com)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/metabolic-syndrome\/symptoms-causes\/syc-20351916\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Metabolic syndrome<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (2019, mayoclinic.org)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/salt\/index.htm\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most Americans Should Consume Less Sodium<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (2020, cdc.gov)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/academic.oup.com\/ajcn\/article\/81\/2\/341\/4607411\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Origins and evolution of the Western diet: health implications for the 21st century<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (2005, academic.oup.com)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5669621\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">POMC Neurons: From Birth to Death<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (2017, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/newsletter_article\/the-mediterranean-diet-a-model-for-americans\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Mediterranean diet: A model for Americans<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (2008, health.harvard.edu)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/healthy-living\/healthy-eating\/eat-smart\/fats\/trans-fat\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Trans Fats<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (2017, heart.org)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/refined-carbs\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What are refined carbohydrates?<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (2020, medicalnewstoday.com)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.webmd.com\/a-to-z-guides\/what-is-cortisol#1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What Is Cortisol?<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (2018, webmd.com)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/327446\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What to know about white blood cells<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (2020, medicalnewstoday.com)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/topics\/agricultural-and-biological-sciences\/western-diets\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Western Diets<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (n.d., sciencedirect.com)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.medscape.com\/viewarticle\/562606\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Western Diet and Recurrence of Colon Cancer<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (2007, medscape.com)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedaily.com\/releases\/2020\/02\/200218161720.htm\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Western diet rich in fat and sugar linked to skin inflammation<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (2020, sciencedaily.com)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The western diet has become quite popular all over the world. However, despite its popularity and consumption by many, health experts are cautioning people to move away from this eating plan. But why? Is the western pattern diet as bad as some claim, or are they just exaggerating the fact? Find out the adverse effects [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":29,"featured_media":10600,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[67],"tags":[],"coauthors":[109],"class_list":["post-10589","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-diets"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v20.2.1 (Yoast SEO v25.4) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Western Diet: Does This Good Ol&#039; American Food Contribute To The Rise Of Obesity? - BetterMe<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"What is a western diet and why are so many health experts against it? Check out this article to find out the effects of this diet on your weight and health.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Western Diet: Does This Good Ol&#039; American Food Contribute To The Rise Of Obesity?\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"What is a western diet and why are so many health experts against it? Check out this article to find out the effects of this diet on your weight and health.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"BetterMe Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/betterme.health.coaching\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2024-12-16T08:35:01+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/shutterstock_1714786945.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1000\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"667\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"\u0421. Kamau\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@betterme\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@betterme\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"\u0421. Kamau\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"17 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"\u0421. Kamau\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#\/schema\/person\/cf1116d250efa55b82f46ea139abdc3b\"},\"headline\":\"Western Diet: Does This Good Ol&#8217; American Food Contribute To The Rise Of Obesity?\",\"dateModified\":\"2024-12-16T08:35:01+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/\"},\"wordCount\":3177,\"commentCount\":0,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/shutterstock_1714786945.jpg\",\"articleSection\":[\"Diets\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"articleBody\":\"<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">The western diet has become quite popular all over the world. However, despite its popularity and consumption by many, health experts are cautioning people to move away from this eating plan. But why? Is the western pattern diet as bad as some claim, or are they just exaggerating the fact? Find out the adverse effects of this eating plan and why people should be careful about\u00a0 a western diet.\\r\\n<\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\"><\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">Also known as the western pattern diet or a standard western diet, this eating plan is described as being dominated by convenient and highly processed foods. But what does this mean exactly? A standard western diet is a modern-day diet that involves high consumption of refined grains, red and processed meats, desserts, sweets, and other high-sugar foods, high-fat dairy products, fried foods, as well as pre-packaged foods.<\/span>\\r\\n<h2 style=\\\"text-align: center;\\\">What Is The History Of The Western Diet?<\/h2>\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">For anyone interested in how the western diet came about, here is a little background information for you.<\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">According to The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, the beginnings of the western diet can be traced to as far back as 10,000 years ago, when the aspect of agriculture and animal husbandry - the practice of breeding, farming, and care of farm animals - began. These changes gradually happened between the Neolithic (a.k.a. New stone age period) and Industrial Periods (the industrial revolution). With them came significant alterations in the environment, lifestyle conditions, and the human diet. While, for the most part, these changes altered the lives of our ancestors for the better, they brought in the side effect of food processing, which changed our diets in a bad way.<\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">Food processing altered the following 7 crucial nutritional char ...\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/\",\"name\":\"Western Diet: Does This Good Ol' American Food Contribute To The Rise Of Obesity? - BetterMe\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/shutterstock_1714786945.jpg\",\"dateModified\":\"2024-12-16T08:35:01+00:00\",\"description\":\"What is a western diet and why are so many health experts against it? 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Kamau\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#\/schema\/person\/image\/0ed0cd9711a5e48e59c4cd4e3aa6902c\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/clare_kamau-150x150.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/clare_kamau-150x150.png\",\"caption\":\"\u0421. Kamau\"},\"description\":\"Clare is an excellent and experienced writer who has a great interest in nutrition, weight loss, and working out. She believes that everyone should take an interest in health and fitness, as not only do they improve your way of life, but they can also have a significant impact on your health. As a writer, her goal is to educate her readers about the ways they can reprogram themselves to enjoy exercise, as well as break free from bad eating habits. 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Check out this article to find out the effects of this diet on your weight and health.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"Western Diet: Does This Good Ol' American Food Contribute To The Rise Of Obesity?","og_description":"What is a western diet and why are so many health experts against it? 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Kamau","@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#\/schema\/person\/cf1116d250efa55b82f46ea139abdc3b"},"headline":"Western Diet: Does This Good Ol&#8217; American Food Contribute To The Rise Of Obesity?","dateModified":"2024-12-16T08:35:01+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/"},"wordCount":3177,"commentCount":0,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/shutterstock_1714786945.jpg","articleSection":["Diets"],"inLanguage":"en-US","articleBody":"<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The western diet has become quite popular all over the world. However, despite its popularity and consumption by many, health experts are cautioning people to move away from this eating plan. But why? Is the western pattern diet as bad as some claim, or are they just exaggerating the fact? Find out the adverse effects of this eating plan and why people should be careful about\u00a0 a western diet.\r\n<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Also known as the western pattern diet or a standard western diet, this eating plan is described as being dominated by convenient and highly processed foods. But what does this mean exactly? A standard western diet is a modern-day diet that involves high consumption of refined grains, red and processed meats, desserts, sweets, and other high-sugar foods, high-fat dairy products, fried foods, as well as pre-packaged foods.<\/span>\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\">What Is The History Of The Western Diet?<\/h2>\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For anyone interested in how the western diet came about, here is a little background information for you.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">According to The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, the beginnings of the western diet can be traced to as far back as 10,000 years ago, when the aspect of agriculture and animal husbandry - the practice of breeding, farming, and care of farm animals - began. These changes gradually happened between the Neolithic (a.k.a. New stone age period) and Industrial Periods (the industrial revolution). With them came significant alterations in the environment, lifestyle conditions, and the human diet. While, for the most part, these changes altered the lives of our ancestors for the better, they brought in the side effect of food processing, which changed our diets in a bad way.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Food processing altered the following 7 crucial nutritional char ..."},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/","url":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/","name":"Western Diet: Does This Good Ol' American Food Contribute To The Rise Of Obesity? - BetterMe","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/shutterstock_1714786945.jpg","dateModified":"2024-12-16T08:35:01+00:00","description":"What is a western diet and why are so many health experts against it? Check out this article to find out the effects of this diet on your weight and health.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/shutterstock_1714786945.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/shutterstock_1714786945.jpg","width":1000,"height":667,"caption":"Shutterstock"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/western-diet\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Blog","item":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Diets","item":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/diets\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"Western Diet: Does This Good Ol&#8217; American Food Contribute To The Rise Of Obesity?"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#website","url":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/","name":"BetterMe Blog","description":"Health &amp; Fitness","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#organization","name":"BetterMe","alternateName":"Betterme Limited","url":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/BetterMe.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/BetterMe.png","width":512,"height":512,"caption":"BetterMe"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"},"sameAs":["https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/betterme.health.coaching","https:\/\/x.com\/betterme","https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/betterme\/","https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/betterme-apps","https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/bettermetips\/","https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UC0svgcjc3jSgcryqo83spPQ","https:\/\/www.tiktok.com\/@betterme.health.coaching","https:\/\/apps.apple.com\/app\/betterme-health-coaching\/id1264546236","https:\/\/play.google.com\/store\/apps\/details?id=com.gen.workoutme&amp;amp;amp;amp;hl=en_US&amp;amp;amp;amp;gl=US","https:\/\/www.wikidata.org\/wiki\/Q114895798"]},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#\/schema\/person\/cf1116d250efa55b82f46ea139abdc3b","name":"\u0421. Kamau","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#\/schema\/person\/image\/0ed0cd9711a5e48e59c4cd4e3aa6902c","url":"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/clare_kamau-150x150.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/clare_kamau-150x150.png","caption":"\u0421. Kamau"},"description":"Clare is an excellent and experienced writer who has a great interest in nutrition, weight loss, and working out. She believes that everyone should take an interest in health and fitness, as not only do they improve your way of life, but they can also have a significant impact on your health. As a writer, her goal is to educate her readers about the ways they can reprogram themselves to enjoy exercise, as well as break free from bad eating habits. In her articles, Clare tries to give advice which is backed by scientific research and is also easy to follow on a day-to-day basis. She believes that everyone, no matter their age, gender, or fitness level, can always learn something new that can benefit their health.","sameAs":["https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/clare-k-420b7a133\/"],"url":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/author\/clarekamau\/"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10589","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/29"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=10589"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10589\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/10600"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=10589"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=10589"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=10589"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=10589"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}