Sausages and processed meats are a staple in many households, often being a go-to option for quick and easy meals. However, what many people don’t realize is that these convenient foods may come with hidden dangers.

In this article, we will look at some of the risks associated with consuming sausages and processed meats and explore why you may want to think twice before adding them to your shopping cart.

What Are Processed Meats?

Processed meats are meats that have undergone various treatments to extend their shelf life or improve their flavor profile. These treatments usually involve smoking, curing, or adding preservatives such as nitrates and nitrites.

Some common processed meats include bacon, hot dogs, salami, ham, and sausage.

Risk of Cancer

The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified processed meats as a Group 1 carcinogen, which means that there is sufficient evidence that consuming these meats can increase the risk of cancer.

Specifically, studies have found that consuming just 50 grams of processed meat per day (about two slices of bacon) can increase the risk of developing colorectal cancer by up to 18%. Other cancers, such as stomach cancer, have also been linked to the consumption of processed meats.

High in Sodium

Processed meats are often high in sodium, which can have adverse effects on your health. High sodium intake has been linked to hypertension, heart disease, and stroke.

In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that about 90% of Americans consume too much sodium, with processed meats being a major contributor.

Increased Risk of Diabetes

Processed meats have also been linked to an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. One study found that consuming one serving of processed meat per day increased the risk of developing diabetes by up to 51%.

This could be due to the high levels of sodium and preservatives present in these meats, which can impair insulin sensitivity.

High in Saturated Fat

Saturated fat is a type of fat that is solid at room temperature and has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease.

Processed meats are often high in saturated fat, with some varieties containing up to 80% of your recommended daily intake per serving. Consuming high amounts of saturated fat can lead to an increase in LDL (bad) cholesterol and a decrease in HDL (good) cholesterol, which can increase the risk of heart disease.

May Contain Harmful Additives

Many processed meats contain additives such as nitrates and nitrites, which are used as preservatives to prevent spoilage and maintain color.

However, these additives have been linked to a range of health problems, including cancer, as mentioned earlier. Additionally, some processed meats may contain other harmful additives such as MSG, which can cause adverse reactions in some people.

Contain Little Nutritional Value

Processed meats are often calorie-dense and nutrient-poor, meaning that they contain very little nutritional value while packing a significant number of calories.

They typically contain high amounts of fat, sodium, and preservatives, while being low in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Consuming processed meats on a regular basis can contribute to a poor diet and may increase the risk of nutrient deficiencies.

Can Cause Digestive Issues

Processed meats can also contribute to digestive issues such as constipation, diarrhea, and bloating. This is because they are often high in fat and low in fiber, which can slow down the digestive process and lead to discomfort.

Additionally, some people may be sensitive to the preservatives and additives commonly found in processed meats, which can exacerbate digestive issues.

Alternatives to Processed Meats

Fortunately, there are plenty of healthy alternatives to processed meats that can provide you with the same convenience and flavor without the negative health effects. Some good options include:.

Grilled chicken or turkey breast
Lean cuts of beef or pork
Fish or seafood
Plant-based proteins such as tofu or tempeh

By choosing these alternatives, you can reduce your intake of saturated fat, sodium, and preservatives while increasing your intake of valuable nutrients.

Conclusion

While sausages and processed meats may be convenient and tasty, they come with significant health risks.

From an increased risk of cancer to digestive issues and nutrient deficiencies, the negative effects of consuming these foods far outweigh the convenience factor. By choosing healthier alternatives and minimizing your intake of processed meats, you can improve your overall health and wellbeing.