9 hours Ago By Ashima Sharda Mahindra
Chicken is among the most popular meats worldwide, commonly consumed for its affordability and accessibility. Packed with protein, it is a healthy meat that helps build stronger muscles and bones and is way healthier than red meat. However, according to a new Italian study, eating chicken at least four times a week can heighten the risk of gastric cancer.
The research, published in the journal Nutrients, had over 4,000 participants who were asked to share details about their demographic background, general health, lifestyle habits, and personal history. They were also asked to complete a validated questionnaire designed to reflect typical food consumption. It included how much meat participants ate, dividing consumption into red meat, poultry, and total meat.
There were many people part of the study who also died. The study found participants who died were mostly due to complications with gastrointestinal cancers, and tended to eat the most meat weekly compared to those who died from other causes. Related News | Postmenopausal Women, Take Note! This Plant-Based Diet Could Protect You From Breast CancerTHIS Common Bug Could Fuel Bowel Cancer in Youngsters; Know Ways to Reduce Your RiskHow does eating chicken cause cancer? According to the study, eating more than 300g of poultry every week is linked to a 27 per cent higher risk of death compared to eating less than 100g - with the risk becoming higher with the amount that is consumed.
Scientists say the danger also spikes when compared to the same portion of red meat. Also, male participants who ate more than 300g of poultry weekly had more than double the risk of dying from gastrointestinal cancer compared to those who ate less. Related News | Viral Tips That Can Help You Reduce Blood PressureWhile it is not entirely clear why consuming this amount of chicken increases the risk, the researchers do have some theories.
They say overcooking chicken creates high levels of mutagens – chemical agents that lead to mutations, which are changes in an organism's DNA. These changes can lead to a variety of effects, from silent mutations in non-functional DNA regions to lethal mutations in actively transcribed regions, according to Biology Online. Mutagens can be physical, chemical, or biological in origin.
Researchers also suggest the way chickens are raised and fed could contribute to the risk of cancer. In many studies, eating chicken exposes humans to carcinogenic pesticides and hormones that are present in their feed. The researchers also weren't sure why men are at higher risk.
They wrote: "No known biological mechanism to explain the observed sex differences." However differences in sex hormones may play a role. They referenced previous research in mice that suggests estrogen, a female sex hormone crucial for sexual development and reproduction, may influence the ability to metabolize nutrients as well as the risk of developing certain diseases.
However, the researchers noted: "Further investigation is needed to support this hypothesis." According to experts, dietary differences between men and women also play a major role as most women prefer eating smaller portions. Which are the other foods linked to a higher risk of cancer Many foods are linked to an increased risk of developing cancer.
These include: Processed meats Fried foods Alcohol Refined sugar A few dairy products Limiting consumption of these foods and focusing on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce cancer risk..
