Fear of pickled sausage cancer is slightly over-interpreted by meat related

Fear of sausage: carcinogenic context over-interpreted
The news flowed over since the World Health Organization (IARC) cancer agency reported that red and processed meat is "likely to cause cancer". This is less surprising than many media think. It has long been known that processed meat (sausages) and red meat (beef, lamb, pork) have a risk-increasing effect on cancers, especially colon cancer. Where the relationship between meat products and colorectal tumors is statistically higher than that of red meat.

Data from the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition study (over 500,000 participants) found that a weekly intake of approximately 600 g of red meat did not demonstrate an increased risk of colorectal cancer. The big problem with the overall view, however, lies in the fact that, although the increase in risk is not proven by the dose-effect relationship. So you can not say what amount you can or should eat a maximum.

How unhealthy is meat really? Here are the ghosts. Image: Thomas Francois - fotolia

From a nutritional point of view, this is already different. For example, the German Nutrition Society recommends eating no more than 300 to 600 g of meat and sausage per week. Processed products such as salami, meat sausage and Co. contribute significantly to the overall energy, because they contain relatively high fat. For many-sausage eaters, this can often simply mean "too much" energy intake, that is to say: one increases. With all subsequent difficulties for cardiovascular system, joints, blood values ​​etc.

Why a crystal-clear recommendation can not be pronounced, explains a truism, which also applies to the present assessment of WHO: Monocausal relationships do not exist in practice. For example, it is known that many-meat eaters also tend to consume more alcohol, eat less fruit and vegetables, use the cigarettes more often, and simply adopt a "unhealthier" lifestyle. Statistically. Average. Because of so many factors of uncertainty and the fact that every sausage is produced differently, one can not speak of a general "warning".

But not to absolve the meat and sausage eaters: for purely health reasons, a mixed diet with lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and a lot of exercise is "not harmful". And you want to call everyone: Use the offer of the trade: There is so much that tastes and is poorly processed. (Aid)