It’s a well-known fact that unhealthy foods — commonly known as “junk” foods for the way they clog up arteries — are bad for you. Mothers say it when you look too closely at ice cream. Fathers say it offhandedly as they drive past McDonald’s. 

And yet, that has never, and still doesn’t, stop us.

In Publix, when you first walk through the sliding doors, you’re hit with the discount section. Usually, it’s something sugary or particularly savory, like a bag of Lays chips, with something healthy, such as raspberries or strawberries, hidden behind. And yet, there’s still a full aisle dedicated to junk food.

It’s always a tiny treat, a small indulgence for everything you’ve done. And yet, 40.7% of Americans are obese, including 9.5% of Americans who are considered morbidly obese. Furthermore, 30% of Americans are affected by NAFLD, a condition where fat (usually from food) accumulates in the liver.

In the U.S., there are few government-imposed regulations on foods. In other places, such as England or France, there are strict restrictions upon manufacturers to limit the use of artificial dyes and preservatives. It’s not hard to see why America has a higher obesity rate.

Eighth-grade strings major Solia Dick said, “I’d say [that] Takis [are really unhealthy] because they have so much dye in them. The dye is not good for you at all, and it’s cancer-causing.”

In the United States, most flavors of Takis contain one-point-five milligrams of the dye Red 40, which has been widely scrutinized for its ties to hyperactivity in children, allergic reactions, DNA damage, hives, migraines, behavioral changes like irritation or depression, and causing cancer in large dosages. Despite that, Red 40 is still legal in the U.S.

Dr. Susan Peacock, R.D., said, “It’s not only a lack of willpower. It’s a mixture of biology, brain chemistry, and habit. The sugar, salt, and fat, like in chips, trigger dopamine. Salty, sugary, fat foods like chips, burgers do that for you. It gets in the system and BAM! You’re hooked.”

The dopamine rush you get from eating your Nerds Gummy Clusters is the same dopamine high you might get from running a marathon or reading a book you like. The only problem is that every unhealthy rush comes with an equal drop. Your energy is sapped. Your metabolism slows. 

But there are plenty of alternatives to junk foods.  

“You cut [pita bread] up into triangles and put it in the fryer, and you make your own chips. So you get the crunch….Inflammation is one of the worst things you can do to your body. And all these foods we’re talking about cause inflammation, disease.” Dr. Peacock offered. “One can of soda, 12 ounces, has 140 calories and 32 grams of sugar. There’s nothing new nutrition-wise in that. A healthier swap would be sparkling water with a little fruit juice.”

So instead of immediately reaching for a Coke, grab a LaCroix. Instead of a handful of Lays chips, try a few pita chips. A veggie burger as a substitute for Wendy’s. It’s important to stay healthy, especially with exercise and better eating habits. The next time you go food shopping, choose wisely.