Unfortunately, the WHO has just rained on our parade with an attack against bacon. I’m sorry-yes, something to ruin your week. But it’s true. The World Health Organization published a report earlier this week stating that eating processed meat such as bacon, ham and sausage is as bad for your health as smoking.
According to a report on Scrippsmedia.com, the WHO is not expected to stop there, but is also expected to reveal that they believe fresh red meat is also bad for human consumption.
The WHO has been making a correlation between bowel cancer and eating high amounts of red meat for a while, suggesting there is strong evidence that the two are linked.
In 2007, an expert panel consisting of researchers from the World Cancer Research Fund and the American Institute for Cancer Research concluded that “red or processed meats are convincing or probable sources of some cancers,” stating that there is convincing evidence for a link between red meat, processed meat, and colorectal cancer, and limited but suggestive for links to lung, esophageal, stomach, pancreatic, and endometrial cancers.
The World Cancer Research Fund recommends eating no more than 500g (cooked weight) per week of beef, pork and lamb.
So, no more sausage and bacon with those pancakes? Not conclusively. But it might be a good thing to cut down on the goods, if it’s a regular thing. Try adding some fruit on the side instead-your intestines will be sure to thank you. Bring on the strawberries, pineapple and breakfast oranges!
Photo credit: nelea33/Shutterstock
