As alarming as the title may seem it is the truth. Research shows a twofold prevalence of cancer among consumers of pre-packed processed and fast foods.
Read on to find out why!
Food manufacturers and retailers seem to have taken advantage of busy lifestyles to offer quick and easy solutions to daily cooking needs. Little do consumers know that behind the seemingly eye catching packaging lies a contortion of cancerous chemicals.
Here are just a few.
Microwave Popcorn
A bag of microwave popcorn proves a perfect companion to watch a movie in the comfort of your own home. However, a chemical used in the non-stick coating on the inside of the bags decomposes upon heating. The process releases a compound called perfluorooctanoic acid, a chemical associated with increased risks of certain cancers, including liver and prostate cancer.
There is also rumour that associates microwave popcorn to lung cancer. Bronchiolitis Obliterans a disease caused by diacetyl, used in the flavouring agent of microwave popcorn. The disease is conventionally seen among factory employees who experience unprotected exposure to chemicals that cause the scarring of small airways hence, impeding normal breathing.
Canned Tomatoes
Yes! Tomatoes are among the world’s healthiest foods. Their wealth of Lycopene makes them even better when consumed in a pureed form. However, the minute this healthy fruit enters a can, all its benefits can turn hazardous. Bisphenol-A (BPA), a chemical used in the coating of most canned and bottled products, has strict limits of usage by food regulatory authorities worldwide. Bisphenol-A (BPA) could seep into the contents of the can or bottle and have adverse effects on humans and even an unborn fetus.
Grilled Red Meat
Heterocyclic aromatic amines change the chemical and molecular structure of meat as it is grilled to the point of well done. The presence of this amine has been associated with increased risks of colorectal, pancreatic, and prostate cancer. While processed meat should be avoided as far as possible, alternative methods of cooking such a steaming and baking can be adopted in the interest of health.
Soda and Carbonated Beverages
The content of high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS), dyes, and a host of other chemicals have made this a cause for not just cancers but an overall health concern. The artificial sweeteners most certainly meet regulatory requirements, yet the over-consumption of such beverages are harmful to many parts of the body and have been proven to link to rare forms of cancers.
Whether it is a regular meal or an occasion such a picnic, there are numerous healthy cooking and food options that we can avail of while sustaining tastes and aesthetic aspects.
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Disclaimer : The articles published on www.prime.sg are intended to provide tips for health and lifestyle for individuals aged 40 years and above. The articles are based on secondary research and do not represent the opinion of the author, Spring Publishing Pte Ltd or any mentioned third party. Spring Publishing Pte Ltd recommends professional consultation in medical treatments and will hold no responsibility for medical causes or consequences of the information contained in articles.
