Processed meats are a staple in many Western diets, with bacon, sausage, ham, and deli meats forming the cornerstone of many American breakfasts, lunches, and dinners.

However, the consumption of processed meats has also been linked to an increased risk of bowel cancer, a type of cancer that affects the large intestine, rectum, and colon. In this article, we’ll explore the connection between processed meats and bowel cancer, and what you need to know to protect your health.

How Processed Meats are Made

Processed meats are any meats that have been modified to extend their shelf life, improve their taste, or make them more convenient to eat. This can include smoking, curing, salting, and adding preservatives or other additives.

Some common processed meats include:.

Bacon
Sausages
Hot dogs
Lunch meats (ham, turkey, roast beef)
Corned beef
Beef jerky

Processed meats are often high in salt, fat, and calories, and low in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Eating large amounts of processed meat has been linked to health problems such as obesity, high blood pressure, heart disease, and cancer.

What is Bowel Cancer?

Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is a type of cancer that develops in the large intestine (colon) or rectum. It typically starts as small, noncancerous growths called polyps, which can later become cancerous if they are not removed.

Bowel cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer, with over 1.4 million new cases diagnosed each year worldwide. Early detection and treatment can greatly improve your chances of survival.

Processed Meats and Bowel Cancer Risk

A significant body of research has linked the consumption of processed meats to an increased risk of bowel cancer.

Some studies have found that eating as little as 50 grams (about 2 slices of bacon) of processed meat per day can raise your risk of bowel cancer by up to 18%. The risk increases the more processed meat you eat. On the other hand, eating fresh, unprocessed meat such as beef, chicken, or fish does not appear to have the same cancer-promoting effects.

Why are Processed Meats Linked to Bowel Cancer?

There are several theories as to why processed meats may raise the risk of bowel cancer:.

Nitrates and Nitrites: Processed meats are often treated with nitrates and nitrites, which are chemicals that help to preserve the meat’s color and flavor, and prevent bacterial growth. However, these chemicals can also form cancer-causing compounds in the gut.
Heterocyclic Amines (HCAs) and Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs): When meat is cooked at high temperatures, such as grilling or frying, HCAs and PAHs can form. These compounds have been linked to several types of cancer, including bowel cancer.
Saturated Fat: Processed meats are often high in saturated fat, which has been linked to a higher risk of bowel cancer.
Low Fiber: Processed meats are typically low in fiber, which can promote bowel cancer by slowing down the movement of waste through the colon, allowing more time for harmful substances to come into contact with the bowel wall.
Additives: Some studies have suggested that certain additives in processed meats, such as sodium erythorbate, can damage the gut lining and promote cancer growth.

How to Reduce your Risk of Bowel Cancer

While there is no way to completely eliminate your risk of bowel cancer, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk:.

Avoid or limit your intake of processed meats, and choose fresh, unprocessed meats instead.
Eat a diet that is high in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
Exercise regularly, as physical activity can help to lower your risk of bowel cancer.
Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, as both of these habits have been linked to an increased risk of bowel cancer.
Get screened for bowel cancer regularly, especially if you are over 50 or have a family history of the disease.

Conclusion

Processed meats are a popular and convenient food, but they are also a potential risk factor for bowel cancer.

By understanding the link between processed meats and bowel cancer, and taking steps to reduce your risk, you can protect your health and enjoy a well-balanced diet.