Barbecue meat can be dangerous: Nutritionist explains
Why red meat is dangerous for your health (photo: pixabay)
When May begins and the weather gets warmer, Ukraine enters barbecue and picnic season, where red meat is often a staple. However, despite its popularity, this product carries unexpected health risks that scientists are actively investigating. Ukrainian dietitian Oleh Shvets explains why you should gradually reduce your consumption of this product.
What you need to know about the hidden risks of red meat
Red meat is a valuable source of protein, B vitamins, and easily absorbed iron. However, it also contains a significant amount of cholesterol and saturated fats, which are directly linked to heart disease.
Research points to an increased risk of cancer due to certain preservatives in processed meats (such as salami and sausages), as well as harmful chemicals that form when meat is cooked at high temperatures.
A recent large-scale study published in "Nature Medicine", which followed nearly 100,000 healthcare professionals, found that those who consumed the most red meat were less likely to reach the age of 70 in good physical and mental health. The negative effects were more significant than those caused by other unhealthy foods like desserts.
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (part of the WHO) has concluded that the risk of cancer increases by 17% for every 100 g of red meat consumed daily, and by 18% for every 50 g of processed meat.
High-quality randomized controlled trials also confirm the harm of red meat. A 2019 study from the University of California, San Francisco, showed that a diet rich in red meat raises cholesterol levels and trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO)—a substance linked to heart disease.
How often can you eat meat?
Ultimately, occasional consumption of lean red meat is unlikely to cause harm. The key is the overall balance of your diet. So when heading to a barbecue, don't forget generous portions of vegetables to help balance your meal.
Remember: you can still enjoy barbecue season. Just do it mindfully.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
