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Study shows link between body fat, red meat and cancer

Posted November 6, 2007 at 09:00 AM by Lisa Cieplechowicz

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

There’s no question that excess body fat and regular consumption of red meat can have health-related consequences.  Now, thanks to recent findings from the World Cancer Research Fund and the American Institute for Cancer Research, we know how severe these consequences can be.  The research indicates that excess body fat and red meat are significantly linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer.

The conclusions were drawn after a five year period that was comprised of an analysis of over 7,000 studies.  The researchers found strong evidence that linked excess body weight - particularly around the waist - to high risk of cancer of the colon, kidney, uterus, pancreas, and esophagus.  Red meat was shown to be connected to the onset of colorectal cancer.

Now let’s answer the “why” and “how” of the situation - why are these factors linked to cancer and how can we protect ourselves from this outcome?  First of all, one reason behind the relationship between body fat and cancer has to do with hormones.  As MSNBC reported, fat cells promote the release of growth hormones and estrogen.  Unfortunately, these hormones are infamously connected to the heightened risk of several types of cancer - from breast to kidney.

Red meat is a bit harder to explain, but there are a few explanations out there.  The American Cancer Society suggests that the iron and fat present in red meat may be part of the reason behind its link to cancer.  CNN has also reported in the past that some researchers argue that diets high in animal fat and protein over-stimulate the immune system, diminishing it’s ability to ward off such illnesses as cancer.

So how do we go about keeping our health intact and lowering our risk of developing cancer?  For starters, learn to live a more healthy life overall.  Make exercise a regular habit and limit your intake of alcohol and fatty foods.  Keep drinking that water, and incorporate fruits and vegetables into your daily diet.  Eat red meat in moderation, and opt for smaller portions and lean cuts when you do.  It’s small steps like these that are the key to keeping you healthy and reducing your risk for different types of cancer.

Research sources and for more information: [Boston.com], [American Cancer Society], [CNN], [MSNBC], [picture]

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Tags: american institute for cancer research, body fat, cancer, fitness, health, heart disease, hormones, iron, men, obesity, protein, red meat, world cancer research fund

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