Does red meat cause cancer?

Lately, the role of meat in the diet has been controversial. In 2002 the International Agency for Research on Cancer published an analysis on the relationship between meat consumption and colorectal cancer. At this time, fresh meat appears to be unrelated to the risk of colorectal cancer. An increased risk of colorectal cancer was associated with an increased consumption of processed meats like ham, bacon, salami, sausages and frankfurts (hot dogs). The Cancer Council recommends that we limit our intake of such processed meats, which are high in fat, salt and nitrates.

Until more conclusive evidence is available it is advisable to avoid char-grilling,
reduce high temperature cooking of meat (pan-frying) and use more roasting,
stewing and microwaving.

Can eating too much salt cause high blood pressure?

A research group called the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) instigated a clinical trial that required participants to consume a controlled diet for 8 weeks. Participants ate either a typical Western diet, a fruit and vegetable diet or a combination diet known as the DASH diet. This trial showed that a diet rich in fruit and vegetables and low fat dairy products could reduce blood pressure in the general population and people with Stage 1 Hypertension.

This original DASH diet did not require either salt restriction or weight loss.There has since been a follow-up study to DASH, called DASH-sodium that has demonstrated a reduction in salt intake in combination with the DASH diet is even more effective.

High blood pressure or hypertension occurs when blood vessels harden leading to a build-up of pressure. It increases the risk of developing heart disease and stroke and can lead to problems in other parts of the body such as the eyes and kidneys.

So, to reduce blood pressure consider the following:

Eat less salt (sodium)
Drink less alcohol
Avoid smoking
Maintain a healthy body weight
Eat a diet rich in fruit and vegetables

Spaghetti with best-ever napolitana sauce

Serves 6

1 tblspn olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
2 x 400g cans chopped tomatoes
1 cup basil
500g spaghetti
4 bocconcini balls, chopped
shaved parmesan, to serve (optional)

1. Heat oil in a pan on medium. Cook onion for three minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add tomato, 1 cup basil and water. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
2. Meanwhile, cook spaghetti in a large saucepan of boiling water according to packet directions. Drain and return to pan.
3. Ad tomato sauce and bocconcini to spaghetti and toss to combine. Divide between bowls and top with shaved parmesan if desired.

Taken from Australian Good Food Magazine July 2011

The final word

Have you ever walked through your office around 3pm and noticed your staff gazing into space or getting up close and personal with the desk? Many businesses are surprised to learn that their staff may be productive for only 2 hours each day and certainly not after 3pm. The health and performance of your employees increases your bottom line. Give me a call and I will tell you how.
Yours in health and performance,
Julie

Does red meat cause cancer?