Americans' addiction to fast food has become a serious predicament. In 2013, approximately eighty percent of Americans said they eat fast food at least once a month; more than half of them (about forty-seven percent of Americans) report eating at a fast food restaurant at least once a week (Richmond 2). Compared to 2006, the percentage of Americans who ate out at least once a month dropped by only 1%, from 81% to 80% (Richmond 2). Since a large percentage of Americans still eat at fast food restaurants, this has become a problem. The problem is caused by the fact that most fast foods are unhealthy and cheap (Muntel 8). There are an excessive amount of fast food restaurants and they can be found almost everywhere. Most Americans have too many busy schedules and it is easier to buy fast food than take time to cook (Muntel 10). Americans should reduce their dependence on unhealthy fast foods. Americans should reduce their dependence on unhealthy fast foods by regulating them. The first reason why fast food should be regulated is that it causes obesity. Nearly 32% of American adults are now considered clinically obese (Deck 4). This is a surprising statistic when you consider that the obesity rate has almost doubled since 1995 (Deck 4). Many fast food choices are high in calories (Muntel 6). An entire day's calories could easily be absorbed from just one fast food meal (Muntel 6). Another reason to regulate fast food is that it is unhealthy. Most fast food products are highly processed and full of fat and sodium (Muntel 6). People are not aware of the consequences of fast food. Excess fat can lead to cardiovascular disease while high sodium... half of paper ......alternatives only affects the person who seeks it (“Should” 16). Another reason why choosing alternatives is preferable to regulation is that the food industry is willing to spend millions just to fight regulations (Halkett 8). Unlike knowing which can cost up to tens of millions of dollars, choosing alternatives is simply a cheaper way to reduce your fast food addiction. It may also take some time for people to be aware of the dangers of fast food, while choosing alternatives is quick and easy. The problem of America's addiction to fast food can be eliminated. However, this will require time, money and a joint effort from many people. Works Cited Muntel, Sarah. "Fast Food: Is it the Enemy?" Coalition for Action on Obesity. Network. November 20, 2013.Richmond, Holly. "The richer you are, the more you eat fast food! Wait, what?" ground. August 7, 2013. Web. November 20. 2013.