Swap your beefburger for a chicken burger. Here is why!!

Once again, red meat is under scrutiny. It feels like every week we get different information. Many people say we should all be vegan, but at HMHB we feel everyone has a right to choose what they eat, and others should respect that decision.

It is good, though, to look at research. It gives us the information to make our own decisions. Well, a new study has said swapping beef burgers for chicken burgers cuts the risk of breast cancer by more than a quarter!!!  Now, I like a McDonalds Big Mac, or a Quarterpounder - but I also have a taste for the Chicken Burger (and let's not forget the wonderful Fillet O Fish).

Eating too much red meat has previously been linked to diabetes, heart disease and several cancers (although it does not say just how much is that down to size of meals and accompanying dishes - if you have steak many have chips and other more fattening foods).

The US study, that followed more than 42,000 women over seven and a half years, now suggests that those who switch to poultry from a regular diet of beef - as well as lamb or pork - are 28 per cent less likely to get breast tumours.

Doctor Dale Sandler, of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, said: "our study adds further evidence that red meat consumption may be associated with increased risk of breast cancer, whereas poultry was associated with decreased risk.

The study, published in the International Journal of Cancer, showed cooking methods made no difference to risk.

On the other side, Professor Paul Pharoah, from Cambridge University, explained the links found between meats and cancer risk were very weak.  And Doctor Emma Derbyshire, of the Meat Advisory Board, cast doubt on the conclusions, adding "as with most things, balance is the key."

HMHB says:
Every day we are told that various different aspects of our nutrition can cause cancer, or other serious health issues. It may be true. But ultimtately it is your choice what you eat, and how you cook it. Our mantra is "everything in moderation". Life is too short to try and be perfect and eat nothing that could possibly cause harm. Eat a healthy diet, have some treats now and then, and get outdoors and enjoy life!!!