No Amount of Processed Meats Are Safe!
Processed meats are meats that have been preserved by smoking, curing, salting, or adding chemical preservatives. This includes common foods like hot dogs, sausages, ham, bacon, and some deli meats. While these are often part of Malaysian breakfasts or snacks, research is showing they may not be as harmless as we think.
No Amount of Processed Meats Are Safe!
Processed meats are meats that have been preserved by smoking, curing, salting, or adding chemical preservatives. This includes common foods like hot dogs, sausages, ham, bacon, and some deli meats. While these are often part of Malaysian breakfasts or snacks, research is showing they may not be as harmless as we think.
The Link Between Processed Meats and Cancer
A large international study published in Nature Medicine found that people who regularly eat processed meats and drink sugary beverages had a significantly higher risk of developing various chronic diseases. In fact, consuming just 150 grams of processed meat a week was linked to a 23 percent increase in disease risk.
The reason lies in how these meats are made. Nitrates and nitrites are often added to preserve flavor and color. But when they are cooked or digested, they can form compounds called N-nitroso compounds, which may damage cells in the body and lead to cancer, especially colorectal cancer.
A separate article by Verywell Health also highlighted that grilling processed meat, which is common during BBQs and family gatherings, produces harmful chemicals like heterocyclic amines (HCAs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). These substances are known to damage DNA and may cause cancer.
Ruining Heart Health
Processed meats don't just increase cancer risk. Studies from Harvard Health show that cutting down meat consumption by just one-third can reduce the risk of heart disease. That’s because processed meats are often high in saturated fats and sodium, which can raise blood pressure and cholesterol levels over time.
A CNN article also explained that high intake of these meats is part of a larger "Western dietary pattern" that’s linked to diabetes, liver problems, and even mental health issues. Regularly eating this way can affect your body at many levels, from the gut to the brain.
How Much Is Too Much?
According to an article on People, there is no truly safe amount of hot dog consumption. While that may sound extreme, it reflects the growing scientific agreement that the risks go up even with small amounts over time. Eating these foods occasionally may not cause immediate harm, but when consumed often, the damage builds up.
What Can We Do?
You don’t need to give up meat completely. Instead, try these simple steps:
Replace hot dogs or deli meats with grilled chicken or tofu
Eat more fresh vegetables and fruits every day
Limit processed meat to special occasions only
Choose steaming or stir-frying instead of grilling or charring meats
Making small changes to your daily diet can reduce the risks linked to cancer and heart disease without giving up the joy of Malaysian cuisine.
Always Choose Whole Foods
Processed meats may be tasty and convenient, but the health risks they carry are real. The science is clear: regular consumption can lead to serious diseases. For the sake of your long-term health and your loved ones, consider cutting back and choosing healthier options more often.
Sources:
CNN Health: There is no safe amount of processed meat to eat, according to new research
Nature Medicine: Health effects associated with consumption of processed meat, sugar-sweetened beverages and trans fatty acids: a Burden of Proof study
People: There's 'No Safe Amount' of Hot Dogs to Eat, New Study Finds
Harvard Health: Cutting meat intake by a third could reduce rates of heart
Verywell Health: Most People Don't Know Grilling Meat Raises Cancer Risk—6 Ways to Grill Safer
Check out Dr. Eddie Ramirez's social medias for expert health news:
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