Killer Red Meats

A two decade Harvard study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine involving 121,342 men and women strongly suggests that red meat consumption will increase the risk of developing cancer and heart disease.  There were 23,926 total deaths in the group with 5,910 from cardiovascular disease and 9,464 from cancer. 

It was found that people who ate large quantities of red meat were less active, had higher body mass indexes and were more likely to smoke.  The study stated that with every three ounces of red meat consumed the overall risk of dying increased 12 percent. 

The increased risk of cardiovascular events has been linked to the consumption of processed red meats such as lunch meats, ham and bacon.  A recent ground breaking study found similar findings that increased the risk of the most deadly form of cancer—pancreatic cancer by 20 percent.

Processed red meats contain high amounts of saturated fat, sodium and nitrites.  Processing commonly adds artificial flavors, colorings and preservatives to the meat that has been found to be the missing link.

Statistical analysis suggests that a 9.3 percent reduction in death would have occurred if the people in the study consumed half as much processed red meats.  Dr. Frank B. Hu, a professor at Harvard University said “when you have these numbers in front of you, it’s pretty staggering”.

Dr. Hu recently published a similar study in the journal Circulation which highlighted additional risks of the development of heart and cardiovascular disease.  It was found that men who drank sugary or artificial sweetened beverages daily to have a 20 percent higher risk of heart disease.  The determining cause of the increased risk included higher levels of inflammation and triglycerides, both known to cause disease.

Heart disease is one of the leading disease killers around the world.  Risk factors of developing heart disease include lack of exercise, poor dietary choices, smoking, obesity and diabetes.  Heart disease, high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol is not caused by a lack of medication; it’s caused by a lack of good choices. 

Reduce Your Risk, Live Longer

The British Heart Foundation said red meat could still be consumed as part of a healthy diet.  The key factor that determines if the red meat is safe for consumption is the amount of processing.  An all-natural steak with no added flavorings and preservatives will be a healthier alternative to convenience processed foods. 

The recommendation is to eliminate all processed red meats and exchange them for fish, chicken and other lean meats.  The consumption of nuts such as almonds and walnuts is another safe alternative that is an excellent snack substitution. 

One of the most important dietary improvements is the elimination of sugar.  The elimination of sugar will reduce inflammation and triglycerides levels in the body.  These two factors are the leading cause of heart disease and premature death. 

It is important to eat healthy fruits and vegetables.  However, it is very common for individuals to consume more fruits versus vegetables.  Fruits are sweeter and have higher sugar content than vegetables.  Vegetables have higher nutrient values and larger amounts of fiber that will specifically reduce triglyceride levels and inflammation. 

Dr. Cory Couillard is an international healthcare speaker and columnist for numerous newspapers, magazines, websites and publications throughout the world. He works in collaboration with the World Health Organization's goals of disease prevention and global healthcare education. Views do not necessarily reflect endorsement.

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