The vast majority of people love a good hamburger and a delicious hot dog, don't they? However, recently, a news discouraged the lovers of these foods. The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified processed meat as carcinogenic to humans. Let's better understand what this means?
→ After all, what are processed meats?
Even consuming this product in large quantities, most people do not know what processed meat is. These meats are those that have undergone modifications to make them tastier and can be preserved for longer. Among the modifications that are made, we can highlight the addition of salt, drying and fermentation. Examples of processed meats are: the hamburger, bacon, salami, sausage and sausage.
→ Why are these foods classified as carcinogens?
The WHO studied several surveys and realized that there was enough evidence to consider these foods as causing cancer. They are mainly related to cancer that affects the intestine, but they can also cause this disease in the stomach.
In view of the evidence, processed meats were included in group 1, which includes those products that are known to be carcinogenic, that is, those that are known for certain to cause cancer. This classification, however, was strange, as the group is the same in which thecigarette and alcoholic beverages. For this reason, some people have come to believe that processed meats are just as dangerous as these substances.
The sausage has products that improve its flavor
→ But, after all, why are processed meats in the same group as cigarettes?
Both cigarettes and processed meats cause cancer and, therefore, they were included in group 1. This classification, however, does not mean that both products cause cancer to the same degree.
When we analyze cigarettes, for example, no safe dose is recommended, that is, you should not smoke at all. With processed meats, the story is different. Moderate intake is believed not to cause serious harm to health. According to some studies, 50 grams of processed meats per day increase the risk of colorectal cancer by an average of 18%.
→ Are red meats also harmful to health?
It's not just processed meats that have been classified as dangerous. Red meats are classified in group 2A, which includes products that are likely to cause cancer. Although less dangerous than processed meats, red meats should also be eaten in moderation.
Therefore, it is clear that good nutrition is the key to our body's health. Eat well and avoid foods that have proven risk data for our body.
By Ma. Vanessa dos Santos
