We grew up with them. We have a special place in our hearts for them. Just the mention of their names brings back warm memories of summer cook-outs, fireworks, and eating sandy sandwiches at the beach. That’s right, hotdogs, ham, bacon and other processed meats are woven into the fabric of Americana just as tightly as the Declaration of Independence. But a new announcement from the World Health Organization may have us thinking twice before serving these processed products at your next family reunion.
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), a division of the World Health Organization, just published an analysis of over 800 studies (http://www.iarc.fr/en/media-centre/iarcnews/pdf/Monographs-Q&A_Vol114.pdf) conducted over more than 20 years in several countries that investigated the link between processed meats and more than 12 different types of cancer.
The 22 member panel of experts from 10 countries concluded that each 50 gram portion of processed meat (less than 2oz) eaten daily increases the risk of colorectal cancer by 18%. Enough to merit classification in its Group 1 list of carcinogens, along with tobacco, asbestos and diesel fumes. The panel also examined red meat but the findings were much less severe.
The analysis is considered controversial, especially with the placement of processed meats in the same category as tobacco. However, it is better to be safe than sorry and limit the amount of these foods in your diet.
At Deliver Lean we never serve processed meats and our healthy servings and fresh fruits and vegetables with every meal provide the needed antioxidants to fight cancer causing free radicals. It is important to get a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet to provide you with a range of free radicals that not only fight cancer, but signs of aging, heart disease, and other concerns that affect Americans today.
So while you may have to re-think that bacon and cheese hotdog the next time you visit the concession stand, you can sleep well knowing that you will be around for summers to come! Call us to sign up for our programs and select from up to 96 different menu options in 4 meal categories that provide you with lean healthy proteins, fresh fruits and vegetables, healthy fats and heart healthy whole grains!
