Modern trends in unhealthy food habits and their implications for healthcare professionals.

Abstract

In the past decade, unhealthy food habits have become increasingly complex, driven by shifts in social, economic, and technological landscapes. The proliferation of ultra- processed foods, convenience-driven dietary choices, and the rise of digital food delivery platforms have reshaped eating behaviors globally, fostering a rapid decline in nutritional quality. High-sugar, high-salt, and high-fat diets are now predominant, contributing to rising incidences of obesity, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and various cancers. Emerging trends include the widespread adoption of “hyper-palatable” snack foods, irregular eating schedules, and a growing reliance on nutrient-poor, calorie-dense foods. Additionally, digital and social media platforms have influenced dietary choices, often promoting fad diets that may lead to harmful patterns, such as restrictive eating or unbalanced intake of essential nutrients. These behaviors challenge healthcare systems by increasing the burden of non- communicable diseases (NCDs) and necessitating more complex patient care.