"Giving 'This' to Children for Breakfast Can Be Dangerous"...Increases Cancer Risk

Processed Meat Consumption Increases Cancer Risk
Combine Quality Carbohydrates with Protein

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A nutritionist in the UK has expressed concerns about giving processed meats to children for breakfast, warning that caution is needed as processed meat consumption is linked to various cancers.

According to the recent report by the British media outlet 'Daily Mail,' Dr. Federica Amati, a chief nutritionist and researcher at Imperial College, urged parents not to give children processed meats such as ham, sausages, and frozen chicken nuggets. She explained that eating processed meats high in sodium in the morning draws excessive water into the body, raising blood pressure and causing dehydration, which leads to fatigue and decreased concentration in children starting their day.

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Consumption of processed meats also increases the risk of cancer. Additives such as salt and food preservatives used in processed meat production cause an imbalance in gut microbiota. Compounds generated during processing, such as N-nitroso compounds and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), damage DNA and create oxidative stress, leading to the formation of cancer cells. A 2019 study by Oxford University in the UK found that consuming more than 70g of processed meat daily increases the risk of colorectal cancer by 5%. Seventy grams of processed meat is equivalent to two slices of bacon or half a hamburger.

High-quality carbohydrates should be paired with protein

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So, what kind of breakfast is suitable for children? Dr. Amati said, "A suitable breakfast for children consists of carbohydrate foods with a low glycemic index (GI) and complex sugars made up of three or more sugar molecules." She emphasized, "Sometimes parents fear their children consuming carbohydrates, but for children, carbohydrates quickly convert into energy in the body, so it is important to consume sufficient high-quality carbohydrates in the morning when energy is needed."

Dr. Amati specifically recommended eggs, finely chopped apples, avocado for smoothies, and pancakes. She advised, "Surprisingly, pancakes can be nutritious. Pancakes made with banana, oats, and eggs can be a highly nutritious breakfast."