Meat Lovers: Higher Risk for Colon Cancer? at He's Fit

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Meat Lovers: Higher Risk for Colon Cancer?

Posted December 17, 2007 at 01:30 PM by Denise Musumeci

Section: In The News, His Health, Lifestyle Health, His Nutrition, Healthy Eating

meat Everywhere in America, people are shoving statistics related to obesity down our throats. People ranging from animal rights activists to doctors are telling us to cut back on the meat and eat vegetables and whole grains. Because of the obesity epidemic, the food pyramid has even been revised to reflect the changes in public health. The food pyramid from 1992 allowed us to eat an 8 oz burger and drink 3 cups of whole milk everyday. Now, with new nutrition knowledge and a new food pyramid, the only meats we are advised to eat are lean meats (i.e. white meat) and to limit ourselves to 5 ounces of meat a day, if not less.

While obesity and heart risks are still big health concerns when it comes to eating meat, studies show another health concern: a higher risk of cancer for meat eaters. Studies by the National Cancer Institute show that people who consume high amounts of red and processed meats have a higher incidence of colon and lung cancer than those who keep their meat intake at a minimum. Studies of 500,000 people over the age of fifty were instructed to record their food in take for a year. This study showed that those who were in the top fifth of meat intake were more likely to have an incidence of lung or colon cancer than those in the lowest fifth for meat consumption.

Another study from aacrjournals.org found similar results. One study examined fat, meat, fiber, and vegetable intake of nearly 48,000 cancer-free men between the ages of 40 and 75. As it turns out, the consumption of total fat, saturated fat, and animal fat were not considered risk factors for colon cancer. However, those who consume large quantities of red meat were found to be at risk. Men who ate pork, lamb, or beef 5 times a week or more have a risk of nearly 3.5 times higher than those who consume red meat once a month. This study did not find a relation of vegetable or fiber intake to the incidence of colon cancer.

While eating a thick steak every now and again will not necessarily kill you, it could lead to major problems in the future if eaten in excess. Not only is your weight and heart in danger, your colon may be as well. So before you shove another burger in your mouth this week, think about the statistics health professionals shove down your throat. Try substituting vegetables, grains, fruits, or lean white meat for tonight’s meal. To help manage your health and your food intake, visit http://www.mypyramid.gov to figure out a diet that best fits your lifestyle.

Sources and other research information: [turnto23.com]; [wikipedia.org]; [cancerres.aacrjournals.org]; [picture]