More Reasons to Avoid Processed Meats
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A pair of recent studies have identified potential health problems related to the consumption of processed meats, including breast cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
The consumption of red and processed meats was linked to a higher incidence of breast cancer, a connection that was particularly strong among postmenopausal women.
One explanation may be compounds produced when meat is grilled, such as heterocyclic amines and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, that have been shown to promote tumor growth.
Another study of more than 7,000 patients -- most of them seniors -- showed that cured, processed meats like ham, bacon and sausage were connected to lower lung functioning and a much higher risk for COPD, even taking into account numerous dietary and other risk factors. Patients who consumed the most processed meats often ate fewer fruits and vegetables than others did as well, which may have compounded the problem.
American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Vol. 175, No. 8, April 15, 2007: 798-804
British Journal of Cancer, Vol. 96, No. &, April 10, 2007: 1139-1146 (Free Full-Text Study)
Reuters April 16, 2007
A pair of recent studies have identified potential health problems related to the consumption of processed meats, including breast cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
The consumption of red and processed meats was linked to a higher incidence of breast cancer, a connection that was particularly strong among postmenopausal women.
One explanation may be compounds produced when meat is grilled, such as heterocyclic amines and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, that have been shown to promote tumor growth.
Another study of more than 7,000 patients -- most of them seniors -- showed that cured, processed meats like ham, bacon and sausage were connected to lower lung functioning and a much higher risk for COPD, even taking into account numerous dietary and other risk factors. Patients who consumed the most processed meats often ate fewer fruits and vegetables than others did as well, which may have compounded the problem.
American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Vol. 175, No. 8, April 15, 2007: 798-804
British Journal of Cancer, Vol. 96, No. &, April 10, 2007: 1139-1146 (Free Full-Text Study)
Reuters April 16, 2007
