If you haven't read about the recent study, here's some news: the World Cancer Research Fund has found that eating processed meats is directly linked to cancer.
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From a National Review story about the study: "Processed meats are too dangerous for human consumption. Consumers should stop buying and eating all processed meat products for the rest of their lives."
In reviewing more than 7,000 clinical trials, WCRF found that processed meats, including bacon, sausage, hot dogs, sandwich meat, packaged ham, pepperoni, salami and just about all red meat used in frozen meals, are made (unless you look specifically for nitrate-free products) with sodium nitrite.
Sodium nitrite is used to change the color of the meats, so they look fresh even when they're not. It also forms nitrosamines, a carcinogen, in the human body.
Some examples of the studies reviewed:
A 2005 University of Hawaii study found that processed meats increase the risk of pancreatic cancer by 67 percent. Another study revealed that every 50 grams of processed meat consumed daily increases the risk of colorectal cancer by 50 percent.
The focus of the review was specifically on processed meats, but even fresh meat creates health—and environmental—problems of its own.
What to eat instead?
If you want foods that help prevent rather than cause cancer, turn more to what grows from the ground. Eat more veggies, fruits, and whole grains: specifically leafy greens (kale especially), garlic, tomatoes, blueberries, mushrooms, and cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, etc.). Also good are sweet potatoes, soy products, nuts, avocados, and rasperries.
And, don't forget to drink red wine and green tea.
