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Toronto Sun
4 days ago
- Health
- Toronto Sun
Does red meat cause cancer? Here's what the science says
Published Jul 21, 2025 • 5 minute read Packages of ground beef are pictured in this file photo. Photo by file photo / Getty Images Reviews and recommendations are unbiased and products are independently selected. Postmedia may earn an affiliate commission from purchases made through links on this page. Q: I've heard eating a lot of processed meats like hot dogs or sausages causes cancer, but what about red meat in general like hamburgers and steaks? Should I cut down on these too? This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Unlimited online access to articles from across Canada with one account. Get exclusive access to the Toronto Sun ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment on. Enjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalists. Support local journalists and the next generation of journalists. Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword. SUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Unlimited online access to articles from across Canada with one account. Get exclusive access to the Toronto Sun ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment on. Enjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalists. Support local journalists and the next generation of journalists. Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword. REGISTER / SIGN IN TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account. Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments. Enjoy additional articles per month. Get email updates from your favourite authors. THIS ARTICLE IS FREE TO READ REGISTER TO UNLOCK. Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments Enjoy additional articles per month Get email updates from your favourite authors Don't have an account? Create Account A: I can't tell you with full certainty that eating red meat will increase your cancer risk – only that the data is concerning enough that the benefits of frequently eating red meat don't outweigh the risks. Red meat consumption in America varies widely. A 2023 analysis of National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data found that about 45% of the population ate zero beef on any given day, whereas 12% account for half of the total beef consumed by the entire country. You don't need to eliminate red meat, but I do advise my patients to limit it: Aim for no more than three servings a week (a serving is around 3 to 4 ounces), because that's the range most studies indicate is less likely associated with cancer. To put this in perspective, if you eat one 12-ounce steak for dinner, you could get close to that limit in a single meal. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. And to be clear: I'm talking about red meat in general like steaks and hamburgers. With processed red meats like in hot dogs or sausages, where the health risk is even greater, I advise cutting down as much as possible. The benefit of marinating red meat If you are going to eat red meat, try this science-backed trick to reduce potential carcinogens: Marinate it one hour before cooking. Here's why: In 2008, researchers at Kansas State University marinated beef round steaks in three marinades prepared with antioxidant-containing spices. Then they grilled them. Interestingly, a Caribbean-inspired marinade, with thyme, red and black pepper, allspice, rosemary and chives, lowered carcinogens by the highest amount – 88%. But all three marinades decreased carcinogens. Your noon-hour look at what's happening in Toronto and beyond. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. Please try again This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. The researchers suspected this occurs because the marinade was seared instead of the meat directly, which could theoretically reduce the formation of carcinogens. It also may be because the marinades contained two or more spices from the mint family, which are rich in beneficial plant compounds called polyphenols. How to cook healthier red meats Specific carcinogens can spontaneously form when meats are cooked at high temperatures, said Mariana Stern, a cancer epidemiologist at the Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California. A few simple tips can help: 1. Avoiding charring, smoking or cooking meats at very high temperatures, like with grilling or pan-searing. Try to keep the heat under 400 degrees Fahrenheit and minimize direct exposure of meat to an open flame. Slow-cooking meat is a great option. Make sure that the meat reaches a safe internal temperature to prevent foodborne illnesses (145 to 165 degrees Fahrenheit depending on meat type), Stern said. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. 2. Marinate your meat beforehand. The 2008 study analyzed wet marinades made with a combination of soybean oil, water, vinegar and spices. But other studies have found that marinades with honey can also effectively reduce carcinogen formation when cooking meats. 3. Harmful chemicals often concentrate in meat drippings, including those used to make gravy. Use a drip pan rather than letting drippings encase the meat. 4. Flip your meat often. This can reduce chemical formation as opposed to just leaving it on the heat source without turning it over. 5. Lastly, I advise picking leaner cuts of meat and eating grass-fed beef, which has higher quantities of omega-3 fatty acids, which are unsaturated fats, when possible. There's no data to suggest these will directly influence your cancer risk, but they may be better for your heart. Leaner cuts of meats have long been recommended due to the risks associated with higher saturated fat content and increased cholesterol. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Perhaps what's even more important than cutting out red meat is what you choose to replace it with. 'While no diet can eliminate cancer risk entirely, limiting red meat and emphasizing a whole-food, plant-based diet can help reduce it,' said Lindsey Wohlford, a registered dietitian at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. She recommends that people struggling to make a change focus on adding healthy foods rather than eliminating favourites. Focus your meals on plant-based proteins like lentils, tofu and beans, as well as whole grains, fruits and vegetables. These foods are high in fiber and carry numerous other health benefits, including – but not limited to – lowering cancer risk. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. So how sure are we that red meat causes cancer? Sure enough that scientists are concerned – especially for people who eat red meat frequently. In the 1970s, epidemiological studies found a significant correlation between meat intake and colon cancer. These observational studies did not prove causation, but subsequent research attempted more rigorous methods, including the famous Nurses' Health Study and Health Professionals Follow-up Study. Both demonstrated strong associations between colon cancer and red meat consumption. But it's hard to definitively conclude red meat is the direct cause. Although researchers took lifestyle factors like exercise and diet into consideration, there may be other variables that could influence these results. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. 'I think it is hard to isolate and focus on single risk factors or banking on a single smoking gun,' said Y. Nancy You, a colorectal surgical oncologist at the University of Texas MD Anderson Center. Nonetheless, taken together, these – and roughly 800 other studies – helped form the basis of the 2015 report by the International Agency for Research on Cancer classifying red meat as a 2A carcinogen, meaning 'probably causes cancer.' Since then, much more data have emerged. We now have greater insight into possible mechanisms behind this link, including how chemicals introduced while cooking may drive precursors of colorectal cancer. What I want my patients to know Stern acknowledges that despite mounting evidence, there are many reasons people push back against the idea that red meat – not just processed meat – could be linked to cancer risk: Red meat has been an enjoyable staple of the American diet for generations and is often available cheaply. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. 'There is also some level of fatalism in the population, with some people having the perception that 'everything causes cancer,'' Stern said. 'Thus, why deprive themselves of something they may like, if in the end, everything is bad?' What I think about most at the end of the day is this: Between 30 and 50% of cancers are preventable, and cancer cases continue to rise among younger adults. Red meat is just one of several possible lifestyle factors that we need to weigh. So talk to your doctor about your health history to get an idea of your personal risk. Read More Toronto & GTA Uncategorized Columnists MMA Movies
Newsweek
5 days ago
- Health
- Newsweek
'Extremely Severe' Obesity on the Rise in US Children—Study
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Extremely severe obesity among American children has increased more than threefold over the past 15 years, with new research published on the JAMA Network, highlighting disturbing trends in prevalence and related health complications. Researchers analyzed national health data from 2008 to 2023, uncovering a surge in the most severe obesity categories for U.S. children aged 2 to 18 years old. Newsweek has reached out to the authors of the study via email Sunday during non-working hours for further comment. Why It Matters The study comes as the nation faces persistent challenges combating childhood obesity, signaling what authors have called a "public health emergency" with wide-ranging medical and economic consequences for future generations. "The findings underscore the urgent need for public health interventions against pediatric obesity in the U.S.," authors Eliane Munte, Xinlian Zhang, Amit Khurana, and Phillipp Hartmann wrote in the study. The sharp upswing in extremely severe obesity among children raises the risk of developing serious medical conditions—including type 2 diabetes, steatotic liver disease, also known as fatty liver disease (MASLD), metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as of April 2024, approximately 1 in 5 children—14.7 million—are already classified as obese, with the burden disproportionately affecting racial minorities and lower-income families. Untreated, these complications can persist into adulthood, multiplying risks for chronic disease and shortened life expectancy. What To Know The study evaluated data from 25,847 children and teens, drawing from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) between 2008 and 2023. Obesity was categorized using percentiles based on age and sex, and researchers identified a 253 percent relative increase in extremely severe obesity. Adolescents aged 16 to 18 and non-Hispanic Black children were especially affected. According to the CDC, the prevalence of obesity in U.S. children and teens aged 2-19 years increased from 19.46 percent in 2008 to 22.52 percent in 2023. Several factors have fueled the rise in pediatric obesity, including decreased physical activity, increased screen time, and greater access to high-calorie, low-nutrient foods. Researchers noted that these issues intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic, with children experiencing a nearly doubled rate of annual weight gain between 2019 and 2021 compared to prior years. "The monthly rate of BMI increase nearly times faster after the virus appeared," Dr. Alyson Goodman of the CDC said in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) in 2021, highlighting the influence of pandemic-era disruptions. Economic and social disparities also contribute significantly to who is most affected. The CDC reported higher obesity rates among children in families below 130 percent of the federal poverty level around 25 percent, compared with those in wealthier households at 11.5 percent. Unequal access to healthy foods, safe recreational spaces, and adequate medical care also play roles, the CDC said in 2024. The JAMA study found significantly higher odds of children developing MASLD (a fatty liver disease), diabetes or prediabetes, metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, and early signs of heart disease. Left unchecked, these conditions can lead to cirrhosis, liver cancer, and major cardiovascular events later in life. In 2024, the CDC estimated the annual medical cost of childhood obesity at $1.3 billion, underscoring the seriousness of the crisis. A beam scale is seen in New York on April 3, 2018. A beam scale is seen in New York on April 3, 2018. AP Photo/Patrick Sison, File What People Are Saying The authors of the study wrote in the conclusion: "The findings of this study with over 25,800 participants provide robust evidence supporting extremely severe obesity specifically as a public health emergency. The association with metabolic and cardiovascular complications necessitates urgent public health action, such as early prevention, targeted education, and the mobilization of resources." What Happens Next? The authors called for "urgent public health interventions" and proposed a multi-layered approach, including preventive education, improved access to nutritious foods, and equitable health care.
Yahoo
7 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Scientists Just Linked the Keto Diet with Higher Cancer Risk—Here's What to Know
Key Points The ketogenic diet is a very low-carb, high-fat diet often used for weight loss. This study suggests the keto diet may increase the risk of all cancers. Following an anti-inflammatory diet may help reduce the risk of cancer by lowering disease still holds the top spot for causes of death in the U.S., but cancer isn't far behind, with each condition claiming the lives of over 600,000 Americans every year. And while researchers are more certain about how to prevent heart disease through lifestyle changes, cancer remains a bit more elusive. Scientists are continually searching for ways to prevent cancer and increase survival rates for those with the disease. Researchers from China analyzed data from a long-running U.S. survey called the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) collected between 2001 and 2018. They wanted to know what association, if any, exists between a ketogenic diet and cancer. They published their findings in Nutrition and Cancer—let's break down what they found. How Was This Study Conducted? For this analysis, almost 44,000 participants from the NHANES met the researchers' criteria. The participants were fairly evenly split between genders, but did skew slightly more female. Participants were at least 20 years of age. All the data were self-reported, including history of cancer, dietary information and demographics. To determine if a participant had a history of cancer, they answered yes or no to the question, 'Have you ever been told by a doctor or other health professional that you had cancer or a malignancy of any kind?' Dietary intake was calculated using the average of two 24-hour dietary recalls, which researchers used to calculate each participant's dietary ketogenic ratio (DKR). The DKR is a calculation that indicates the likelihood of someone entering ketosis based on their macronutrient ratio. Ketosis occurs when carbohydrates, the body's preferred source of energy, are not available. In this case, the body turns to fat as an energy source, and then the liver converts fat into ketone bodies, which can also be used as an energy source. Based on their DKRs, participants were placed into one of four quartiles, with Q4 having the highest DKRs and Q1 having the lowest. Demographics that would be adjusted for during statistical analyses included age, sex, ethnicity, income and education levels, marital status, BMI, smoking status and medical history. What Did This Study Find? Researchers found that as DKR increased, so did the risk of cancer. But not just one or two types of cancer—all cancers. In other words, they found a significant association between the keto diet and the risk of developing cancer. While these study authors note that there are likely some short-term benefits of a keto diet, the long-term risks may outweigh the benefits. Why keto may raise cancer risk needs to be explored further, but researchers provide a few possible explanations. First, they note that ketones have been implicated in increasing oxidative stress, causing cellular damage, which increases the risk of developing cancer. They also point out that while cancer cells typically prefer to use glucose as an energy source, research suggests that some cancer cells can utilize ketones as an alternative energy source to survive and proliferate. In addition to these findings, these researchers also found that as the degree of ketosis increased, there was a notable decline in the antioxidant properties of vitamins A, C, and E, as well as trace elements such as manganese, zinc, and selenium. This aligns with numerous studies that have consistently shown deficiencies in antioxidant vitamins and trace elements can substantially increase the risk of all cancers. One significant limitation of this study is that participants' ketosis levels were not directly measured with bloodwork. Also, information was all self-reported, which leaves room for error and bias. This includes cancer diagnoses, which might have been more accurate had they used participants' medical records. How Does This Apply to Real Life? While a ketogenic diet does have some legitimate medical uses—like reducing seizures in children with epilepsy—beyond that, it's mainly used to lose weight. The problem is following it long-term—let's face it, one can only eat so much cheese and bacon. And while all foods can fit into a healthy eating pattern, it's important to eat a variety of foods to ensure your body gets the nutrients it needs. Though this study can't say that a keto diet causes cancer, based on this data, there appears to be a strong connection between the two, and more research should be done. Since we know there's also a correlation between chronic inflammation and cancer, eating an anti-inflammatory diet may help reduce cancer risk. An anti-inflammatory diet focuses on fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats. Besides eating a varied, balanced diet and maintaining a healthy weight, the American Cancer Society recommends engaging in regular physical activity, managing your stressors, getting plenty of quality sleep, avoiding or limiting alcohol and not smoking to help lower your cancer risk. Our Expert Take This study suggests a connection between the ketogenic diet and cancer risk. While keto may help you lose weight, the risks may outweigh the benefits. If you feel better reducing carbs, there are healthier and more moderate ways to do so that don't go to keto extremes. To get started, choose from our low-carb, high-protein dinners that come together in just 30 minutes or our high-protein, low-carb breakfasts to help you lose weight. If cancer prevention is top of mind, taking a holistic approach may not only help prevent cancer but also other diseases, including heart disease and diabetes. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, lean proteins and healthy fats in your diet. In addition, move your body often, deal with what's stressing you out, get enough quality sleep and spend time with loved ones. Read the original article on EATINGWELL
Time of India
14-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Shocking! Loneliness can be linked to Diabetes; here's how
A recent study presented at ENDO 2025 reveals a significant link between social isolation and increased risk of diabetes and poor blood sugar control in older adults. Analyzing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), researchers found that isolated individuals were significantly more likely to develop diabetes and struggle with blood sugar management. Loneliness may not only affect your mental health, but may also affect your physical health. It might not just hurt your feelings, but may harm your health, and even lead to diabetes. Yes, that's right. A recent study has found that socially isolated individuals have an increased risk of developing certain diseases. A recent study presented at ENDO 2025, the Endocrine Society's annual meeting in San Francisco, California, found that people who are isolated have an increased risk of developing diabetes and high blood sugar. Isolation and diseases The researchers looked at how social isolation is a growing concern since the COVID-19 pandemic, and it is emerging as a major health risk, especially for older adults. They found that isolation could even be linked to diabetes and high blood sugar in older adults. Diabetes is a chronic condition that occurs when the body either doesn't produce enough insulin or can't effectively use the insulin it does produce. This could lead to high blood sugar levels, which can cause serious health complications if not managed properly, including heart disease, kidney damage, and vision problems. High blood pressure, on the other hand, is a 'silent killer', and goes undetected for years. Hypertension is one of the leading causes of chronic illnesses, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure, worldwide. 'Social isolation and loneliness have been increasingly recognized as important health risk factors after the COVID-19 pandemic. Our findings underscore the importance for clinicians to recognize social isolation as a critical social determinant of health when caring for older patients,' lead researcher Samiya Khan, M.D., of the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California, said. 'These findings are especially relevant given the rapidly growing aging population in the United States and globally, alongside the widespread prevalence of social isolation and loneliness among older adults,' Khan added. BELLY FAT BLUES: The Waistline Warning Sign of Diabetes The researchers also added that though previous studies have looked at the connection between social isolation and diabetes, this recent study is among the first to examine its link to poor glycemic control using a nationally representative sample of data that reflects the broader US population. The study The researchers analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2003-2008. NHANES is a survey program to assess the health and nutritional status of adults and children in the US. Analysing that, the researchers looked at the data of 3,833 adults aged 60 to 84. This represents about 38 million older people in the US. They found that socially isolated older adults were 34% more likely to have diabetes and 75% more likely to have poor blood sugar control than those who were not isolated. This study has pointed out that isolation could be a vital factor, which is often overlooked when it comes to diabetes and poor blood sugar management in older adults. 'These findings underscore the importance of social connections for the well-being of older adults. Physicians should recognize social isolation as a potential risk factor among elderly patients for both diabetes and high blood sugar,' Khan added.
Time of India
14-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Watermelon has several health benefits you might not be aware of; check what research reveals about summer fruit
Several studies and research conducted recently have shown that watermelon is not only a refreshing and hydrating summer fruit, but it also plays a significant role in supporting heart health and improving overall diet quality. The fruit, according to scientific findings, may boost heart health and improve overall nutrition. According to a study, people who eat watermelon consume more vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, and less sugar and saturated fat. In another clinical trial, it was found that compounds in watermelon juice can support blood vessel function during sugar spikes. With nutrients like lycopene, L-citrulline, and vitamin C, this vibrant fruit is proving itself as a year-round ally for cardiovascular health and dietary quality. A recent study in Nutrients used National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data and found that eating watermelon is linked to better overall nutrition for both kids and adults. Those who ate watermelon had healthier diets, with higher amounts of fiber, magnesium, potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin A. They also got more lycopene and other carotenoids and consumed less added sugar and saturated fat. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Join new Free to Play WWII MMO War Thunder War Thunder Play Now Undo Heart health benefits A second study in Nutrients looked at whether drinking watermelon juice could help protect blood vessel function during high blood sugar. This clinical trial at Louisiana State University used a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover design. Live Events Participants drank watermelon juice daily for two weeks while researchers examined the effects of L-citrulline and L-arginine on nitric oxide levels and heart rate variability. Both studies received funding from the National Watermelon Promotion Board.
