Introduction

The modern world has seen a rising trend towards convenience, and as a result, processed meat such as sausages, bacon, and deli meat are now widely favored and easily accessible. Research tells us that the regular consumption of these particular products has a negative impact on one’s health, and can lead to a variety of diseases. In this article we will explore the various ways in which processed meat can lead to health problems, as well as outline some of the major risks posed, along with suggesting some helpful tips that can help one maintain their health and assist in changing their diet.

Description of Processed Meat

Processed meat is classified as meat that has undergone disfiguring or mutilating for various purposes including curing, freezing, or any other form of salting. Some examples include:

• Sausages and hot dogs
• Bacon and ham
• Deli meats (like salami and turkey slices)
• Canned meats (like corned beef)

As with any form of production, preserving substances undergoes a certain chemical treatment that most of the time consists of a large number of additives which are generally harmful to one’s health.

Top Three Health Concerns Associated with Processed Meat

1. Increased Cancer Chances

Processed meat consumption can trigger a higher risk of certain cancer types like colorectal cancer. Processed meat is classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a Group 1 carcinogen which means it is a known cause of cancer in humans. This classification places it in the same category as smoking, however the risks associated with both are not comparable.

2. Greater Possibility of Heart Disease

Processed meats can contain high levels of saturated fats as well as sodium which are both linked to heart disease. Over consumption of both can result in high blood pressure which increases chances of heart attacks and strokes. Moreover, some preservatives like nitrates and nitrites can exert pressure on the heart and blood vessels.

3. Greater Risk of Type 2 Diabetes

Evidence suggests that frequent consumption of processed meat increases the chances of being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Processed meat contains high levels of salt and fat, as well as various food additives which impact insulin function and control over blood sugar levels negatively.

4. Risk of Obesity

In most instances, processed meats are very high in calories and unhealthy fat consumption. When lots of these are consumed on the regular, it makes an individual susceptible to obesity which in turn may be responsible for various chronic diseases such as diabetes.

Caching Compounds Within Processed Meats

Amidst the many risks processed meats start compounding due to certain compounds present in these meats:

• Nitrates, and Nitrites: These nitrogen compounds are commonly used as preservatives due to their vibrant color – however, in the body they are transformed into nitrosamines, a known carcinogen.
• Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs): Whenever meat is grilled or smoked at high temperatures, these are produced and are prime contributors to cancer.
• Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs): Whenever meat is cooked at high temperatures, these compounds surface – the meat will link glue and oxidative stress which are common culprits of increasing chronic diseases.

Preventing the Risk of Processed Meats

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle becomes easier by opting to consume less processed meats, some ways in which you can do this are as follows:

• Cut Down on Processed Meat Intake: While every now and then a processed meat sandwich is fine it becoming a primary meal will lead to adverse side effects. Instead of it being a centerpiece, make it a side dish.
• Opt for Cheaper and Newer Fresh Meats: Chemically treated and preserved processed meats can be avoided with the inclusion of fresh lean meats like turkey, fish, and chicken.
• Include Proteins coming from Plants: Beans, lentils, and other sources of soy proteins provide nutritionally rich and filling alternatives that promote a healthy heart and lower the chance of developing cancer.
• Analyze Food Labels: Excessive sodium content and preservatives can be harmful. Be cautious, steer clear of meat packs that appear to contain preservatives such as nitrates or nitrites.
• Use more Healthy ways to Cook: Rather than deep or barbeque grilling meat, do gentle things like poaching and steaming. This will prevent the harmful compound from forming.

Conclusion

The convenience of processed meat can come at a cost to health and such meals must be monitored for consumption. In any case, such chronic diseases as meat-related should go hand in hand with a balanced diet made out of fresh ingredients and meals which are not processed.