The World Health Organization just came out with news that might scare a lot of people. Processed meats cause cancer and red meat might contain carcinogens too. As stated in a BBC article, eating just 50g (less than two slices of bacon) per day can increase someone's risk of getting cancer by 18 percent. This is very scary, but here are 4 things you need to know about this new information.

1. What is processed meat and red meat exactly?

Processed meat is the adding of preservatives to extend shelf life or to change the flavor of the end product. Some common processed meats include hot dogs, bacon, sausage, salami, and canned meats. Red meats is the meat that is darker in color. These meats include beef, lamb, and pork.

2. Why is processed meat bad for me?

Carcinogenic (cancer-causing) chemicals form during the processing of such meats. Putting this already processed meats onto a barbecue (at very high temperatures) for cooking also increases the carcinogen level in the meats.

3. How can I avoid processed meat?

Opt for the healthier and non processed options like turkey and chicken. Also increase your intake of plant based foods. Technically speaking and according to the MyPlate diagram, half of our plates should contain vegetables or fruit. This is not necessarily how everyone is plating their food. By all means processed meats do not need to be completely cut out of the diet but if a healthier, non-processed option is available it should be taken. You could also try to cut meat out of your diet 1-2 days a week. For example, trying to do a "Meatless Monday". You could even try new vegetarian options to expand your palate like tofu or tempeh. Fish and other seafood are also healthier ways to get your protein intake in for the day.

4. How do I know if I am at risk?

Eating processed meats and red meats does not mean you will get cancer. Depending on how much you are eating will let you know whether or not you are at risk. Processed meats are much more dangerous than red meats since there is such limited evidence on the cancer causing properties of pork and steak. However, eating 50g of processed meats every single day can increase your risk by 18 percent. Think of processed meats as a luxury from now on.

Take the information presented seriously and let your family and friends know about processed and red meats. Happy healthy eating!

http://www.bbc.com/news/health-34620617