Consuming processed meat increases the risk of colorectal cancer: Study

Consuming processed meat increases the risk of colorectal cancer-Study There is some evidence suggesting an association between processed meat and stomach cancer

Meat and poultry are excellent sources of protein, B vitamins and certain minerals, but consuming even small amounts of processed meat increases the risk of colorectal cancer.“We see a 4 percent increase in the risk of cancer even at 15 grams a day, which is a single slice of ham on a sandwich,� said Nigel Brockton, director of research for the American Institute for Cancer Research. Eating a more typical serving of 50 grams of processed meat a day would increase the risk of colorectal cancer by 18 percent, a 2011 review of studies found.

Unprocessed red meat, by comparison, increases cancer risk only at amounts greater than 100 grams a day, and the evidence for that link is limited, Brockton said, adding that the institute advises people to “limit” red meat but “avoid” processed meat.There is some evidence suggesting an association between processed meat and stomach cancer.

And a recent study found an increased risk of breast cancer among women who ate the most processed meats.Processed meat refers to any meat, including pork, poultry, lamb, goat or others, that has been salted, smoked, cured, fermented or otherwise processed for preservation or to enhance the flavor. The category includes hot dogs, ham, bacon and turkey bacon, corned beef, pepperoni, salami, smoked turkey, bologna and other luncheon and deli meats, sausages, corned beef, biltong or beef jerky, canned meat and meat-based preparations and sauces, among others.

Many of these meats tend to be high in salt and saturated fat, though lean and lowsodium options are available.Processed meats are often cured by adding sodium nitrite, which gives them a pink colour and a distinct taste, or by adding sodium nitrite and lactic acid, which provides a tangy taste, according to The American Meat Institute. In the past, nitrates, in the form of saltpeter, were traditionally used. Nitrates or nitrites inhibit the growth of READ MORE ON BUSINESS STANDARD / BS