Why does bbq cause cancer

Some people may be reconsidering plans to grill hot dogs and steak based on a new report supporting the link between red and processed meats, and increased colorectal cancer risk.

Cancer-causing substances form when these meats are preserved, says the American Institute for Cancer Research. Try grilling skinless chicken breasts and fish instead. Insist on red meat? Charring, burning or grilling meat, poultry and fish over high temperatures causes heterocyclic amines HCAs to form. Just 30 minutes can help. Cancer-causing polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons PAHs form in the smoke when fat from meat, poultry or fish drips onto the heat source.

That PAH-filled smoke then coats your food. Curb exposure to PAHs by trimming fat from meat before grilling. Showcase fruits and veggies.

No barbecue should be a meat-only affair. Grilling fruits and veggies is a great way to load up on vitamins and nutrients that help your body fight off diseases like cancer. Already a print subscriber? Go here to link your subscription. Need help? Visit our Help Center. Related: 32 Ultimate High-Protein Recipes. The scientists found that the fumes infiltrated the study participants through inhalation, but also through their skin. United States. Type keyword s to search. Today's Top Stories. How to Eat Like Chris Hemsworth.

Barry Knoblach. Tip 1: Turn down the firepower. Many people forget that the spices we add to our foods can pack a healthy anti-cancer punch. Better yet, grow some fresh basil, thyme, rosemary, and sage in a container on your deck next to your grill. Chop some of these spices to add to your grilled foods. According to the International Agency on Research of Cancer, it appears to be wise to limit your intake of red meats, whether grilled or cooked in any fashion.

Instead, there are a few simple rules to follow. Using skewers is also an excellent way to limit the amount of grilled meat consumed during a meal. Small pieces of meat, combined with fresh fruits and vegetables on the grill make for an attractive and delicious meal. As for the hot dogs, you may want to take a pass. We know that, of all meats, processed meats likely confer the most cancer risk. Since you will already be limiting both the frequency and portion size of the meats you eat, might it not be best to save those portions for cuts of non-processed meats you can truly savor, such as a good but marinated steak?

We know that high cooking temperatures and smoke put mutagenic chemicals into and onto meat. Yet, there are several measures you can take to reduce the number of heterocyclic amines and other carcinogens in the meat you eat.

Keep in mind that just like everything in life, moderation is key. You still can enjoy grilled meats, but just do so in moderation and when cooked at low temperatures. That said, women who have had breast cancer may want to limit the amount of grilled, barbecued, and smoked meats they consume, even if they take the measures above to reduce carcinogens.

Finally, instead of thinking about only what you need to avoid, you may wish to reframe and think about the foods you can enjoy which may instead reduce your risk of cancer. Limiting processed foods and red meats can help ward off cancer risk. These recipes focus on antioxidant-rich foods to better protect you and your loved ones. Sign up and get your guide! Zheng W, Lee SA. Well-done meat intake, heterocyclic amine exposure, and cancer risk. Nutr Cancer. Meat intake, cooking methods, dietary carcinogens, and colorectal cancer risk: findings from the Colorectal Cancer Family Registry.