As time continues to progress, technology and innovation continues to greatly alter the nature of American living and for the western world at large. While technology has caused individuals to be able to communicate with one another and live in a manner that is unparalleled in terms of comfort in human history, there have also been many negatives in terms of these advancements. Social media and the rise of the internet has resulted in significant loneliness issues, a breakdown of communitarian sentiments and local connections, and even mental crises. Young people are suffering from serious mental health issues. In a recent report, a Neuroscientist claimed one should only limit themselves to 30 minutes of scrolling on social media if they seek to maintain healthy levels of mental wellness. Social media has long been a detriment to mental health.
Along with the internet, food has changed significantly in modern times, as has food consumption. Ultra-processed foods have become staples in the diets of many average Americans. For decades, following the rise of “fast” food, processed products have increasingly become normal on American counters, and less and less individuals grow their own fruits and vegetables, buying from big box grocers. Another aspect of the modern “health” movement has been the demonization of red meat and the promotion of “vegan” or plant based foods. Many young Americans have adopted this diet, claiming it to be healthier than natural meat. But they fail to acknowledge that many “vegan” foods contain high levels of fat, salts and are heavily processed.
In many processed substances, significant chemicals and additives that may be detrimental to the health of an individual are added. A recent report indicates that the US FDA banned a common additive known as brominated vegetable oil. It is used in citrus flavored beverages but has been found to interfere with the health of the thyroid gland. Sun drop soda and others feature the additive.
