I read somewhere recently that colon and other related cancers may be related to mouth bacteria so it might be something unrelated but...
I wonder if the rise in colon cancer in younger people coincides with the popularity of home smokers? Smoking meat is quite the rage with our son's and their friends. On average, I would say they smoke meat at least 2 times a week.
I asked Google and sure enough...
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Yes, smoked meat contains carcinogens, which are substances that can cause cancer. The smoke from cooking meat at high temperatures (above 300°F) creates harmful substances called polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heterocyclic amines (HCAs). These substances are mutagenic, meaning they can change your DNA and increase your risk of certain types of cancer. The National Cancer Institute says that high exposure to these compounds can lead to increased risk of cancer of the intestinal tract, notably colon and stomach cancer.
Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials
Are Smoked Meats Bad for Your Health?
Mar 3, 2022
Inverse
Does smoked meat cause cancer? A dietitian assesses the damage
May 14, 2022 — The chemicals worth knowing when it comes to carcinogens (any substance capable of causing cancer) in smoked foods are polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (P.A.H.s) and heterocyclic amines (H.C.A.s). These compounds form when meat — beef, pork, poultry, and fish — cooks at high temperatures (above 300 degrees Fahrenheit).
These carcinogens form when meat is charred, and the longer meats are cooked, the more HSAs are created. The smoke from the cooking process also creates nitrosamines, which are formed by reactions between nitrogen oxides in smoke and amines or amides in the foods.
Here are some ways to reduce carcinogens when grilling meat:
- Flip the meat often: Research has shown that flipping meat several times helps to prevent char and buildup of PAH's and HCA's.
- Cook on lower heat: This can help lower the carcinogenic harm.
- Marinate & Add Herbs: This can help reduce carcinogens.
Is it safe to eat smoked meat?
As the saying goes, everything in moderation. Smoked meat is the perfect choice for a healthy snack as it's high in lean protein while low in fat and carbs. These meats are packed with good lean protein, smoky flavor, moisture, but have a fraction of the fat.
What meat has the most carcinogens?
How do you cook meat to prevent carcinogens?
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