Meat: The Cancer Risk We Need To Focus On

Of all the publicity about potential carcinogens in our environment, one of the proven causes of cancer receives insufficient attention. We’ve been aware since 1939 that cooked meat contains cancer-producing substances, but still there is no sign of a real public health movement against the consumption of meat. In the past, the results of animal experiments have been cited in order to defend the consumption of meat, with 99% of meat carcinogens said to be removed by the liver. However, this claim ignores the fact that we are 50 times less able to detoxify these carcinogens than rats in a lab. Women should be particularly aware that the statistics of meat eating for breast cancer stand at a 400% higher risk for those who regularly consume cooked meat.

The carcinogenic elements in meat are known as heterocyclic amines. Whereas most other environmental carcinogens promote the spread of cancer at a single stage; either by causing genetic mutations, promoting cell growth or promoting metastasis, the heterocyclic amines found in meat promote cancer at all three stages. It is this that has earned them the nickname ‘three strikes carcinogens’ – an apt acknowledgement of the danger of consuming them. The risk applies for all forms of cancer, but breast cancer has an even further elevated level of risk from meat. This is because the heterocyclic amine PhIP activates oestrogen receptors almost to the level of the pure hormone itself! With a now acknowledged 400% increased risk, women should think carefully about whether their wellness is worth risking for the sake of a meat-based diet.

The effect of meat on the development of cancer is just one example of its numerous impacts on wellbeing. Also closely associated with heart disease, joint problems and obesity, the consumption of meat is a trend that needs to be questioned. Our standard Western diet choices are the products of habit and mental conditioning that makes us blind to the many alternatives available to us. A whole food diet based on fresh fruit, vegetables, pulses and legumes is the best way to fortify your health for the future.