Why Shouldn't We Overdo The Processed Meat?
Author: Mark Velov
Time for reading: ~1
minutes
Last Updated:
May 20, 2024
In this article, learn more about Why Shouldn't We Overdo The Processed Meat?. Increases the risk of cancer and heart problems, scientists say..
A diet rich in red meat can shorten life expectancy, according to researchers at Harvard Medical Institute.
A study of more than 120,000 people shows that red meat increases the risk of cancer and heart problems.
But replacing it with fish, chicken or nuts reduces the danger, experts say.
Consumption of unprocessed red meat increases by 18% the risk of death from cardiovascular disease and cancer by 10%. When consuming processed meat, the risk of death due to heart problems is 21%, and cancer - 16%.
Researchers have suggested that the increased risk to the heart is due to the presence of saturated fats in red meat. They have the effect of raising the levels of "bad" cholesterol in the blood. Sodium used in processed meats may also increase the risk of cardiovascular disease through its effect on blood pressure.
According to the British Heart Foundation, red meat can be part of a balanced diet, but in moderation and using healthy cooking methods such as roasting, said Victoria Taylor, a nutritionist at the British Heart Foundation.
The World Cancer Research Foundation recommends limiting the consumption of red cooked meat to 500 g per week, equivalent to about 700-750 g raw.
3800 cases of colon cancer per year can be prevented by consuming less than 70 g of processed meat per day. Limited consumption of red meat up to 70 g will reduce the incidence of cancer by another 1900.