DOES RED MEAT CAUSE CANCER?

Don’t let science get in the way of a good story. 

This has certainly been the case this week as ‘Red Meat Causes Cancer’ headlines have been streamed across the country, & indeed the world. So here are a few points that didn’t quite make their stories..... 

The recent study of interest actually found that ‘people with diets high in red meat & processed meats are associated with a modest increase in risk of bowel cancer’. This study also clearly specifies that processed meats are of more concern than lean red meat.

The first thing to acknowledge is that most Australians do not have high intakes of red meat, this means the findings of this recent study are not relevant to the average Australian. In fact, leading health experts are constantly reminding people to make sure they eat the recommended amount of red meat as part of a balanced diet & to ensure they get their required iron, protein, zinc & vitamin B12.

Secondly, the difference between red meat & processed meat needs to be clarified. Red meat is one of the most nutritious foods on the planet in regard to essential nutrients. Processed meats however, as with all processed foods, are often higher in fats & salts & should be consumed in moderation. Hence the impact of processed meat on your health may be substantially different to the impact of lean red meat, therefore they should not both be grouped under the ‘red meat’ banner as the media has incorrectly done lately.

Possibly the most important fact to consider is that extensive research suggests that the best option for reducing our risk of all types of cancer is not to smoke, consume alcohol in moderation & exercise regularly. 

So in terms of cancer risk there is no reason to cut red meat from your diet, making sure its unprocessed most of the time & that you have a healthy lifestyle is the key. 

Click here for more info on the nutritional value of red meat.