Junk food refers to ultra-processed foods that are low in nutrients but high in calories, added sugars, unhealthy fats, and sodium. Research links frequent consumption with increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and cancer.
Common junk foods in the United States include deep-fried items like French fries and chicken tenders, sugary pastries like Pop-Tarts and donuts, specialty coffee drinks and milkshakes, ice cream desserts, and sugar-sweetened soda.
Occasional consumption of ultra-processed foods is OK as part of a balanced diet, but regularly consuming them can have negative long-term effects on metabolic and cardiovascular health and may affect brain health and cognition.