TV Ads be like: Junk Food, Meds, Junk Food, Meds

Let's talk about the unsettling pattern of TV ads in the US, where we go from pizza to pills, revealing a system profiting from our health struggles.

The Unsettling Link Between Medications vs. Junk Food TV Commercials

In the ever-pervasive world of television advertising, there’s a curious phenomenon that often goes unnoticed: the stark contrast between commercials promoting medications and those showcasing indulgent, greasy foods. While seemingly unrelated, these advertisements paint a troubling picture of a system that profits from our poor health choices, perpetuating a cycle of illness and medication dependence.

In these commercials, medications like Argenx, Ozempic, Caplyta, Mounjaro, Rexulti, Cozaar, and others are often presented alongside tantalizing images of pizzas, burgers, and other junk foods. It's a jarring visual dichotomy that speaks volumes about the state of health in America.

What lies beneath the surface of these seemingly innocuous ads is a web of interconnected interests. The American food industry, with its emphasis on cheap, processed, and often unhealthy fare, is intrinsically linked to the pharmaceutical industry. It’s a symbiotic relationship that thrives on our consumption habits: we eat poorly, become ill, and then turn to medications for relief.

Let’s dissect this cycle

Firstly, consider the foods being promoted: high-fat, high-sodium, and high-sugar items that are notoriously detrimental to our health. Regular consumption of these foods leads to a myriad of health issues, including obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and digestive disorders. Yet, they are marketed to us relentlessly, often with little regard for the consequences on our well-being.

Opened bag of chips — Image by Esperanza Doronila

A very interesting article from the Michigan News, shares an important analysis from Jenna Cummings, lead author and former U-M research fellow: “Many people think that eating highly processed foods like cheeseburgers and French fries will make them happier, and these beliefs are especially strong in people struggling to control their intake of highly processed foods.”

Then, there are the medications. Zyrtec for allergies, Caplyta for schizophrenia, Pfizer Covid-19 vaccines for the pandemic, Mucinex for congestion, Dramamine for motion sickness, Skyirizi for psoriasis, Prilosec for heartburn, Ozempic for diabetes, and Gas-X for gas relief—each targeting a specific ailment or symptom. While these medications undoubtedly provide relief for many, they also symbolize a system focused on symptom management rather than addressing the root causes of our health issues.

Moreover, the prevalence of these commercials speaks volumes about the normalization of illness in our society. We’re bombarded with messages that suggest it’s inevitable to suffer from allergies, digestive problems, or other ailments, rather than promoting preventive measures or lifestyle changes that could mitigate or even prevent these issues altogether.

You don't believe me? Well, here's a breakdown of how unhealthy dietary habits can contribute to the health issues treated by the medications mentioned:

Cozaar (Hypertension)

Fried bacon on skillet — Image by David Trinks

Unhealthy Diet: Excessive sodium intake from processed and fast foods, along with high consumption of saturated fats found in fried foods and fatty meats. Sugary beverages, alcohol, and caffeine can also contribute, while inadequate intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains further exacerbates the risk.

Rexulti (Depression)

Cans of Spam ham on a shelf — Image by Hannes Johnson

Unhealthy Diet: High in processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats may lead to inflammation in the brain and imbalances in neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, which are crucial for mood stability. Additionally, the rapid spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels caused by sugary snacks and drinks can exacerbate feelings of fatigue and irritability, contributing to depressive symptoms.

Zyrtec (Allergies)

Hot dog over a red background — Image by Annie Spratt

Unhealthy Diet: High consumption of processed foods, particularly those containing artificial additives and preservatives, can weaken the immune system and exacerbate allergic reactions. Additionally, diets lacking in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids may increase inflammation, worsening allergy symptoms.

Caplyta (Schizophrenia)

Heinz tomato sauce over a dark red background — Image by Pedro Durigan

Unhealthy Diet: Research suggests a potential link between poor nutrition and the development or exacerbation of mental health conditions like schizophrenia. Diets high in processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats may contribute to inflammation and oxidative stress, impacting brain function and mental health.

Skyrizi (Psoriasis)

Cheeseburger with french fries over a red background — Image by Aleisha Kalina

Unhealthy Diet: Certain dietary factors, such as consuming excessive amounts of red meat, processed foods, and refined sugars, may contribute to inflammation in the body, exacerbating symptoms of psoriasis. Additionally, deficiencies in certain nutrients like vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids, commonly found in unhealthy diets, may worsen skin health.

Prilosec (Heartburn)

A Tabasco sauce bottle over a black background — Image by charlesdeluvio

Unhealthy Diet: Acidic, spicy, and high-fat foods are known triggers for heartburn and acid reflux. Consuming large meals, particularly close to bedtime, can also increase the risk of heartburn. Additionally, diets lacking in fiber and essential nutrients may contribute to gastrointestinal issues and exacerbate heartburn symptoms.

Ozempic (Diabetes)

A stack of donuts with sprinkles — Image by Kobby Mendez

Unhealthy Diet: Diets high in sugar, refined carbohydrates, and unhealthy fats can contribute to insulin resistance, obesity, and Type 2 diabetes. Excessive calorie intake, particularly from sugary beverages and processed snacks, can also lead to weight gain and metabolic dysfunction, increasing the risk of diabetes.

Gas-X (Gas Relief)

A Coca Cola thin can over a red background — Image by Mae Mu

Unhealthy Diet: Gas and bloating can result from consuming gas-producing foods such as beans, cruciferous vegetables (like broccoli and cabbage), carbonated beverages, and certain high-fiber foods. Additionally, eating too quickly, chewing gum, and drinking through straws can introduce excess air into the digestive system, leading to gas and discomfort.

To watch some pharmaceutical & medical TV commercials, click here.

This normalization is dangerous because it perpetuates a mindset of dependency on medications rather than empowering individuals to take control of their health through nutrition, exercise, and holistic approaches. What’s the solution? It starts with raising awareness and challenging the status quo. We need to demand transparency from both the food and pharmaceutical industries, calling for clearer labeling, honest advertising, and accountability for the products they promote.

Furthermore, we must prioritize preventive healthcare over reactive treatments. This means investing in education, access to nutritious foods, and community-based wellness initiatives that empower individuals to make healthier choices. Shout out to wonder woman, Michelle Obama!

Ultimately, the juxtaposition of medication and junk food commercials serves as a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of our health and the systems that shape it. By recognizing and challenging these dynamics, we can strive towards a healthier, more equitable future for all.

Let's keep the discussion going on.