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Luncheon Meat Dangers

Luncheon meats are convenience foods that may cost you your health and your life. According to the World Cancer Research Fund and the American Institute for Cancer Research, all processed meats, such as hot dogs and bologna, should be limited or even avoided in a healthy recommended diet. Luncheon meat dangers include the use of sodium nitrate or nitrite, are high in salt, high in fat and are too much meat for one's good health.

  1. Sodium Nitrate or Nitrite

    • Sodium nitrate and sodium nitrite are preservatives used in the curing process of luncheon meats. It wards off growth of bacteria, such as botulism, and it develops the color and taste of processed meats. However there is much debate surrounding the toxicity of these preservatives. According to the World Cancer Research Fund and the American Institute for Cancer Research, there is a strong link between these preservatives and colorectal cancer. The U.S. Department of Agriculture found that low doses of sodium nitrite may cause acute methemoglobinemia, which is when the hemoglobin can no longer carry oxygen in the blood stream, especially in infants.

    Salt

    • Table salt, or sodium chloride, is often found in high quantities in luncheon meats. The USDA warns that too much salt in your diet may lead to high blood pressure and other diseases. It specifically targets processed meats, such as luncheon meats, as high in salt and sodium. Ham, for example, has roughly 1,100 milligrams of salt for about 3 1/2 ounces, while cereal has only about 300 milligrams.

    Fat

    • A diet that is low in saturated fat is recommended for healthy living. Luncheon meats are higher in saturated fat and should be limited. Lean meats and fish have less fat than processed meats such as hot dogs and luncheon meats. Unsaturated fats are good for a healthy diet, and those include avocados, nuts and olive oil. Reducing the intake of saturated fats from meats may help prevent heart disease, cancer and type two diabetes.

    Meat

    • The World Cancer Research Fund and the American Institute for Cancer Research recommend diets that limit meat, especially processed meats for overall health. Diets that are higher in plant food reduce cancer risks. Plant foods have folates and carotenoids that help prevent cancer. For example, garlic protects against rectum and colon cancer, and fruits may prevent cancers of the esophagus, lung and stomach. Eating luncheon meat reduces your intake of vegetables and fruits that are better for your health.

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