Published on 11/14/2024 at 12:34 p.m., updated on 11/14/2024 at 12:34 p.m.
Lecture 2 min.
To stay healthy, the consumption of red meat, in particular, must be regulated. Did you know that some are more harmful than others, especially after age 50? Discover the 5 types of meat to avoid according to a nutritionist specializing in cancer.
Various studies have demonstrated that there is an association between the consumption of certain meats – particularly processed meats – and the risk of cancer, in particular colorectal or stomach cancer. Here are the five types of meat to avoid after age 50, to limit your risks, according to dietician Alyssa Tatum, MD Anderson Cancer Center (UNITED STATES).
Burgers and steaks
Meats like those found in burgers or even steaks are widely consumed, but carry health risks after the age of 50. “Red meat such as beef, pork, venison or lamb have been linked to colorectal cancer” warns the dietician. Does that mean you should completely ban them from your diet? No, answers the expert. “We are not saying that we should ban this type of meat, but limit our consumption and choose smaller portions when we eat it. she explains.
Alyssa Tatum’s other tip is to check the cooking temperature. “Grilling or cooking these meats over high heat can produce harmful carcinogens“. To reduce your risk, consider opting for gentler cooking methods, such as in the oven.
Bacon
Bacon is a highly processed meat. And this type of meat presents an increased risk of generating certain cancers, in particular due to the nitrates and nitrites they contain. “These products are often preserved with nitrates and nitrites, which can increase the risk of colorectal and stomach cancers. warns the expert. So if you still want to eat bacon from time to time, choose products that contain neither, preferably.
Sausages and hot dogs
Sausages also belong to the category of processed meats. The risk is therefore the same. “So it’s best to swap this meat for healthier options if you want to reduce your risk of cancer.” advises Alyssa Tatum. To do this, always read the nutrition label and opt for products with few or no additives. And if you are used to eating hot dogs, slow down your consumption to favor a healthier diet.
The charcuterie
Ham or salami are the perfect option for making an excellent sandwich. However, just like bacon or sausages, these are once again processed products, which are full of preservatives. These same preservatives which increase the risk of cancer after the age of 50. Also, Alyssa Tatum recommends here again only consuming them occasionally and favoring those containing the least sodium, nitrates and nitrites possible.
NO to diets, YES to WW!
Fatty meats
Finally, the last category of meat to avoid is fatty meat, like pork ribs, for example. They often require cooking at high temperatures, which can produce carcinogens. Alyssa Tatum therefore recommends choosing leaner cuts of meat, cutting visible fat and favoring marinades with oven cooking, to reduce the formation of carcinogenic chemicals during cooking.
