13 mars 2023
According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), replacing – even a little – the consumption of ultra-processed foods with an equal amount of healthier foods would help reduce the risk of various types of cancer.
As their name suggests, these ultra-processed products have undergone many physical, chemical or biological transformations. In fact, they no longer have much to do with the original food.
Sodas, industrial products such as cordon bleu, nuggets, charcuterie with nitrites, dehydrated vegetable soups, most industrial breads and brioches, cereal bars, “health” and “slimming” products such as Meal replacements and powdered or “enriched” meals are some examples.
Nutri-score: favor A or B
In recent decades, eating habits have shifted from diets rich in fresh and minimally processed foods to the consumption of ultra-processed foods, of lower nutritional quality (more salt, sugar, fats, less fiber, vitamins, minerals) and richer in additives. ” These accelerated dietary changes have been linked to the global emergence of diet-related non-communicable diseases “, explains the Circ. In particular, they are suspected of promoting the occurrence of cancer.
However, there is no fatality. And it is not forbidden to consume these products… but it should be done in small doses. According to scientists, Replacing 10% of processed foods with an equal amount of minimally processed foods is associated with reduced overall cancer risk. And more specifically head and neck cancer, esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, colorectal cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma and postmenopausal breast cancer. »
Note: To find your way around more easily, know that around 80% of ultra-processed foods are classified C, D or E on the Nutri-Score. Therefore, favor foods classified A or B.