Burgers, fries, soda, candy, chips, cookies, cake. Normally you wouldn't associate any of these words with a professional athlete, but they do share a connection. They are connected by a lucrative middleman: sponsorships.

For years, sponsorships have been supplying athletes with money and gear in exchange for endorsing companies and their products. They are great for both parties; athletes receive pay and usually free products while companies gain exposure and potential revenue through the athlete's fans and followers. In theory, sponsorships are wonderful, but is there a point where the final dollar takes more importance over the quality of the product and its impact on the consumer?

Many top athletes sponsor products that are unhealthy. The irony of this paradox stuns me. In my opinion, it is somewhat appalling that many athletes endorse junk food because it goes against everything that an athlete stands for. In order to be a top athlete, you not only have to train right, but you also have to eat right in order to achieve maximum performance.

Athletes need the right type of fuel to get them through their grueling workouts and the right food for recovery. If you want to be an athlete, are you told to eat chips and cookies? No. You are told to eat a balanced diet consisting of protein, fruits, vegetables, and possibly grains and dairy.

There is an obesity epidemic going on in our nation today, yet even the healthiest individuals are endorsing unhealthy behaviors. How are we supposed to solve the obesity epidemic if the nation's healthiest individuals are supporting it? These industries know what they are doing; athletes are followed and supported by so many people from all walks of life. They are role models to the masses, especially children.

Endorsement deals with athletes are big money makers for these industries, because many people are so attracted to the appeal of certain athletes that they will take part in or purchase anything associated with said athlete. We are part of a society that is dependent on and craves the fast food and junk food industries. These industries are so deeply ingrained into our culture that they are present in areas where they shouldn't be. Ideally, athletes should not be endorsing food and beverages that are detrimental to the health of consumers and individuals.

I understand that athletes need sponsorships in order to fund their athletic careers and lives. It is just disappointing that some choose to endorse products that harm instead of help individuals.