"Doctor, I've recently heard that eating chicken can cause cancer, is that true? Aunt Li anxiously asked the doctor in the corridor of the hospital.
Aunt Li is a housewife who prepares hearty meals for her family every day. And chicken, as a frequent guest at her family's table, has always been favored. But lately, some rumors on social ** have upset her. 
She had a relative with cancer, and the whole family was in a haze because of it. Therefore, when she heard the statement that "chicken causes cancer", Aunt Li immediately became nervous. She feared that her years of cooking would put her family in danger. The doctor looked at Aunt Li's anxious appearance, took a deep breath, and said slowly: "Aunt Li, don't worry, let's talk about this problem slowly." ”Editor: Jing Ming
Chicken and Cancer: Maybe it's a misunderstanding
First of all, let's be clear: chicken itself is not carcinogenic. In fact, chicken is rich in high-quality protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it an essential part of a healthy diet.
So, where does the claim that chicken causes cancer come from? This is mainly due to an observational study,The study noted that excessive intake of poultry meat may be associated with an increased risk of certain cancers.
Note, however, that this is "excessive intake" and that this is only an observational study and does not directly prove that chicken causes cancer.
Authorities such as the World Health Organization (WHO) do not classify chicken as a carcinogen. Instead, they emphasize the importance of eating a balanced diet with a moderate intake of a variety of foods.
Instant Chicken and Hormones: Is It a Misconception or the Truth?
Rumors about instant chickens are also boiling. Rapid chickens, also known as "white-feathered chickens", have achieved rapid growth through excellent breed selection and scientific feeding management.
The fast growth rate of these chickens is not due to the use of hormones, but to the advancement of modern farming techniques.
In fact, feeding or injecting hormones into chickens does not speed up their growth, but may lead to metabolic disorders and even death.
Moreover, China's "Regulations on the Administration of Veterinary Drugs" clearly stipulates that it is forbidden to add hormone drugs to feed and animal drinking water. Therefore, chicken purchased through regular channels can be eaten with confidence.
So, what are the meats that really need to be wary of?
"Carcinogenic meat" that really needs to be wary of
Risks of red meat
Excessive intake of red meat (e.g., beef, lamb, etc.) is indeed associated with an increased risk of cancers such as colorectal cancer. This is mainly due to the high content of saturated fat in red meat and the cooking methods that can produce harmful substances. But that doesn't mean red meat can't be eaten, the key is to eat it in moderation and choose healthy cooking options.
So, apart from red meat, what other meats should we pay special attention to?
Hidden dangers of processed meat products
Preservatives such as nitrites are often added to processed meat products (e.g. bacon, sausages, etc.) during the production process, which may be converted into carcinogens in the body.
Therefore, long-term high intake of processed meat products can increase the risk of cancer. Consumers are advised to minimize the intake of processed meat products and choose fresh, natural ingredients.
Eat meat healthily, choose scientifically
In the face of many myths and misconceptions about meat, how should we make scientific choices?
Eat a balanced diet
Don't be picky or picky eaters. Meat is one of the best high-quality proteins, and moderate intake of meat is beneficial to health. But at the same time, it is also necessary to eat more vegetables, fruits and other foods rich in dietary fiber and vitamins.
Cooking:
Even if healthy meats are chosen, improper cooking can produce harmful substances. Cooking methods such as grilling and frying at high temperatures may produce carcinogens such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and heterocyclic amines. Therefore, it is recommended to choose low-temperature cooking methods such as steaming, boiling, and stewing to reduce the production of harmful substances.
Choose from a variety of meats
In addition to chicken, fish, lean beef, lean lamb, etc. are all good options. Different types of meat contain different nutrients, and a variety of choices can provide a more comprehensive nutritional intake.
Eat meat in moderation
According to the recommendations of the Dietary Guidelines for Chinese ResidentsThe daily intake of livestock and poultry meat should be between 40-75 grams. Excessive intake not only increases caloric intake, but may also have adverse health effects.
After listening to the doctor's detailed explanation, Aunt Li finally let go of the big stone in her heart. She decided that she would still stew chicken soup for her family in the future, but she should pay attention to the moderate intake and cook it with other ingredients.
At the same time, she also began to pay attention to the overall health of her family's diet, and try to achieve balance and variety. She believes that as long as she eats scientifically and exercises moderately, she can keep her family away from diseases.
"Chicken is not carcinogenic, and moderation is the most important; Red meat is risky and should be cooked lightly; Processed meat products and eat less is a good idea. ”Remember this sentence, and you will no longer be confused when eating meat!
Health is the root of life, let's pay attention to healthy diet and scientific health from now on! If you have any questions or concerns about your health, please consult a medical professional and relevant institutions in time.