Are you a fan of English breakfast or someone who enjoys cold cuts and deli meats in general? Well, you might want to rethink your choice as it is not the healthiest one.
Processed meats such as sausages, bacon, salami, etc are indeed very delicious and convenient to store, and are a very convenient source of proteins, iron, vitamin B, Zinc and even offer high nutrition benefit per calorie.
So, why is it that we are asking you to consider your choice?
Well, it is not just us but the World Health Organization (WHO) who is asking you to do it.
In 2014, there was a health survey conducted by WHO along with IARC on health hazards due to the consumption of red meats and processed meats and the results, well, let’s just say, they made many people find an alternative for their breakfast choice.
The survey they conducted showed that processed meat harms the human body as much as tobacco or asbestos smoking does, if not, even more because “The IARC classifications describe the strength of the scientific evidence about an agent being a cause of cancer, rather than assessing the level of risk” , which means that processed meat is also carcinogenic, i.e, cancer causing.
They have even emphasized on the process of making processed meats that is done by transforming through salting, curing, fermentation, smoking, or other processes to enhance flavor or improve preservation. Most processed meats contain pork or beef, but processed meats may also contain other red meats, poultry, offal, or meat by-products such as blood which not only affects the health of an individual but also breaches religious conduct of certain Abrahamic religions like Muslims, Christian, etc.
If cancer was not enough, these processed meats are also notorious for other health hazards as well. It is needless to emphasize the fact that due to excessive salting of meat, it contains high levels of sodium which can increase blood pressure and the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease and its high saturated fat level which are bad for your heart as well.
Now, it is totally up to you to decide if you want to start your day with such a toxic option like this when you have healthier alternatives.
If you are really used to processed meats and can’t do without it then here’s what you can try including in your breakfast options instead:
- Grilled Chicken or Turkey: Grilled chicken or turkey is a lean protein that can be a great alternative to processed meats. It can be seasoned with herbs and spices to add flavor.
- Plant-Based Proteins: Plant-based proteins, such as tofu, tempeh, or seitan, can be a healthy and delicious alternative to processed meats. They can be prepared in a variety of ways, such as stir-fried or grilled.
- Smoked Salmon: Smoked salmon is a flavorful alternative to processed meats. It is high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which can benefit heart health.
- Homemade Breakfast Sausage: Making your own breakfast sausage using lean ground meat and herbs and spices can be a healthier option than store-bought processed meats.
And if you miss consuming your deli meats too much it is okay to indulge in them occasionally and in moderation.
Your body is a miraculous wonder and it heals itself from these toxic agents, so give it the love it needs to heal you by indulging in healthier choices today.
