WHO released an advisory statement about processed and red meat, and the associated risk of cancer, which raised quite some storm among Kenyans.
We are no doubt a meat-loving nation — you just need to look at the thriving nyama choma business that’s driven by our ravenous appetite for the sizzling red stuff. One of my buddies, and a really ‘meaty’ one at that, asked me if this means he should give up on his most favored delicacy.
Well, a knee-jerk response to any health advisory should never be the case. For starters, anything that grabs the headlines tends to get blown out of proportion.
You need to look at the specifics of any advisory prior to making drastic decisions. You must then relate the specifics to your own context, and thereafter, make your own decisions on how to keep yourself healthier.
Let’s start with the facts. Meats are a rich source of proteins and vitamins, no doubt about that. They are an essential part of our diet. Another fact, processed meats like bacon and sausage and red meats have been shown in several medical studies to raise the risk of certain cancers and cardiovascular disease.
But there is a catch. Below a certain threshold, you derive health benefits from such meats. But beyond a certain limit, meaning eating too much of the meats, your risk of untoward effects starts to rise. And that’s where WHO comes in with the advisory about meats and cancer.
Now that you know about raising your risk of cancer with processed and red meats, you can take steps to limit that risk. The immediate thing is to work out how much meat you are taking daily or weekly.
Moderating the amount to only essential dietary limits will do you some good. You could also consider alternate sources of proteins and vitamins.
White meat, like fish for example, is a healthier option, as are plant proteins that include nuts and legumes. Make deliberate efforts to give up your choma now and again, and order a healthier alternative.
Next, review your prevailing health and potential risk factors for disease. You might be more predisposed to cancer through genetics, poor health habits like smoking and drinking, or being overweight. In such circumstances, you need to be even keener on heeding health advisories.
Remember also to get regular cancer screening as may be applicable to your individual circumstances. Also get unusual symptoms checked in good time.
I ended up giving my buddy further tips on how to moderate his red meat intake. Ironically, this was over a sizzling-red roast, washed down with some beer.
Combining one risky unhealthy habit with another is even worse. But size up health advisories that come your way, and make choices that keep you much healthier.