What Are Processed Foods?
Sausage, bacon, and deli meats may seem like the go-to for breakfast and lunch. Unfortunately, an increased risk of cancer and numerous other chronic diseases have been linked to the overconsumption of processed, aged, and cured meats. Making smarter food substitutions can help prevent health complications down the road.
Health Risks
Eating cold cuts on a daily basis can increase your chances of high blood pressure, heart disease, COPD, and cancer. According to the World Health Organization, your risk of cancer increases by 18% per 50 grams of processed meat eaten daily. The deli sandwich you packed for lunch may contain chemicals such as nitrates, nitrites, and other compounds that are considered carcinogenic.
Smarter Alternatives
For breakfast, try spicy veggie sausages or an egg white veggie omelet. For lunch, prepare a classic PB&J, an egg salad sandwich. or veggies and hummus. Replace meats with beans and lentils in your dishes and add a variety of spices for flavor.