You don’t have to give up meat entirely, but reducing your intake of processed varieties is a smart move for your long-term health. Try these instead:
Fresh, unprocessed meats like grilled chicken, turkey, or lean cuts of beef
Plant-based proteins like beans, lentils, tofu, or tempeh
Homemade deli alternatives, like roasted chicken breast you slice yourself
Fish and seafood, which are high in omega-3s and lower in harmful compounds
🛑 Bottom Line: Don’t Panic, But Be Proactive
It’s important to remember: occasional indulgence isn’t the same as daily consumption. The key is moderation. While a hot dog at a ball game or bacon at brunch won’t make or break your health, making processed meats a regular part of your diet can increase your long-term cancer risk.
By becoming more aware of what’s in your food and making small changes, you can significantly improve your health — and lower your cancer risk.
