Commentary

Diet heavy on meat might cause cancer
By Jennifer K. Reilly, R.D.

This letter ran Dec. 19, 2007 in the Culpeper Star Exponent

To the Editor:

Think a small serving of meat each day is harmless? Think again. A new study from the National Cancer Institute showed that the more red and processed meat you eat, the greater your risk of developing a variety of cancers.

The study examined the link between cancer risk and consuming beef, pork, lamb and processed meats, including poultry sausage, luncheon meats and cold cuts, and low-fat meat per day for a person consuming the average 2,000-calorie diet. The study found an association between high consumption of red and processed meat and an increased risk for myeloma and colon, esophageal, liver, bladder and lung cancer.

These results indicate that most Americans need to change their meat-heavy diets. The good news is that scientific studies also show that fruits, vegetables and other vegetarian foods can help prevent cancer. In addition, following a plant-based diet can help people trim their waistlines and maintain a healthy weight.

Jennifer K. Reilly, R.D., Senior Nutritionist
The Cancer Project, Washington, D.C.

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