FAST FOOD VS. HOME-COOKED MEALS WHICH ONE IS BETTER FOR YOU Odilova Farangiz

Аннотация

This paper examines the relationship between fast food and home-cooked meals, as well as their respective impacts on health, nutrition, and lifestyle factors. This research aims to determine which alternative has the most positive influence on physical well-being, long- term health, and dietary balance. A diverse cohort of participants was utilized to gather data concerning eating behaviors, frequency of consumption, and associated health outcomes. The findings suggest that individuals who frequently consume home-cooked meals are less likely to be overweight, exhibit higher energy intake, and have a lower risk of developing chronic diseases. Prior research has also indicated that home cooking contributes to improved portion control and nutrient intake. These results highlight the benefits of pot roast in comparison to fast food in terms of life extension. Keywords: Fast food, Homemade meals, Health benefits, Dietary behaviors, Nutrition, Eating behavior, Lifestyle, Obesity, Chronic disease, Food Preparation 1. Introduction In consideration of the rapid urbanization and the emergence of modern lifestyles characterized by relatively swift transitions, how are eating habits evolving within our society? This paper presents a prospective analysis of the eating behaviors of adults influenced by urbanization, the general changes associated with rapid urbanization, and the consumption of fast food, as well as their impacts on society. Fast food, as a lifestyle choice, represents a distinctive feature and characteristic of the consumption habits among young individuals. Recent statistical studies indicate that fast food has become the most popular type of food among young people, particularly within the college demographic. A recent survey indicates that approximately 80% of teenagers aged 18 to 24 reported consuming fast food at least once or twice weekly, attributing their choice to convenience and a lack of time. The distinction between fast food and home-cooked meals extends beyond mere convenience; it encompasses an array of additional health, economic, and environmental considerations. In recent years, numerous studies have demonstrated that individuals who consume relatively high quantities of fast food are more likely to encounter adverse health effects. For instance, according to Bowman and Vinyard (2004), an increased intake of fast food is associated with higher energy consumption, lower nutrient supply, and a greater prevalence of overweight and obesity. This issue is particularly alarming, as the Paeratakul, Sahasporn, et al (2003) recently concluded that an inadequate diet is a significant contributor to the global rise in chronic illnesses. Home-cooked meals have been linked to notable improvements in dietary habits, including enhanced portion control, increased nutrient intake, and a reduced overall risk of chronic diseases (Wolfson & Bleich, 2015). These findings further underscore the health benefits of home cooking, as meals prepared at home are associated with a higher likelihood of consuming a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients. 4 8 International scientific journal ISSN: 2181-3906 «MODERN SCIENCE АND RESEARCH» 2025 VOLUME 4 / ISSUE 6 / UIF:8.2 / MODERNSCIENCE.UZ Additionally, environmental issues are becoming increasingly prominent in discussions of dietary choices. According to Chung et al. (2022), the production and distribution of fast food significantly contribute to environmental degradation through issues such as pollution, excessive waste, and a substantial carbon footprint, as mass food production and distribution require substantial quantities of energy to produce and deliver. Home-cooked meals are commonly perceived as environmentally friendly due to their reduced packaging and lower energy consumption required for cooking; nevertheless, despite their apparent environmental advantages, fast food remains the predominant choice in many diets, especially among young people. The appeal of fast food is amplified by strategic marketing efforts that make it appear fast and desirable. Research has demonstrated that marketing efforts significantly influence individuals' food choices and undermine existing science connecting fast food consumption to adverse physical effects (Harris et al., 2009). These marketing strategies are especially effective for children and adolescents who are particularly brand loyal, representing individuals who perceive time as limited and seek convenience. In addition, social and economic considerations can also cloud food decisions, leading individuals to select fast food alternatives that are higher in calories and lower in flavor (Monsivais & Drewnowski, 2009). For instance, for many young adults, busy academic and professional lives lead to short time frames for cooking meals, reinforcing their reliance on fast food to the exclusion of home cooking and rapidly changing their eating patterns. In light of the increasing prevalence of fast-food consumption, al