Introduction to the Risk
Let’s be frank. While it’s common to indulge in a hot dog at a baseball game, a new poll reveals that most Americans do not know that the tubular meat may be one of the worst things for their health.
The Health Concerns of Hot Dogs
"Tens of millions of Americans could eat hot dogs this baseball season, but most of them are unaware that doing so raises their risk of colorectal cancer and other diseases," said Noah Praamsma, a nutrition education coordinator for the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, which conducted the poll.
Hot dogs are striking out for health concerns. beats_ – stock.adobe.com
Rising Colorectal Cancer Cases
Once primarily associated with older adults, colorectal cancer cases have been steadily rising among younger people since the ’90s. Today, it’s the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Americans under 50, according to the National Cancer Institute.
The Role of Processed Meat
The popular American pastime of eating processed meat may be to blame.
Processed meats — like hot dogs, sausages, bacon, pepperoni and ham, that have been salted, cured, smoked or chemically preserved to extend their shelf life — have been classified as carcinogenic to humans by the World Health Organization.
The WHO noted that there is “sufficient evidence from epidemiological studies that eating processed meat causes colorectal cancer.”
Experts believe the increased cancer risk may be from nitrates within the meat that combine with compounds in the body to damage cells.
Study Findings
A March 2024 study found that people who consume a lot of red or processed meats, respectively, face a 30% to 40% increased risk for colorectal cancer.
The American Heart Association recommends limiting processed meat to 100 grams a week, about two servings.
Scientists are still learning the full extent of what makes ultraprocessed foods so harmful. New evidence suggests they may interfere with the body’s natural healing process. A December 2024 study found that chronic inflammation, fueled by poor diet choices, plays a key role in driving the growth of colorectal cancer.
Public Awareness
A new poll found that 88% of US adults have eaten a hot dog in their lifetime. kirkikis – stock.adobe.com
The research doesn’t seem to have resonated with ordinary Americans.
In the new poll, 88% of US adults reported eating a hot dog at some point in their life.
While 70% said they were aware of health risks associated with hot dogs, less than 20% were able to recall specific risks.
Among those who were aware of the health risks, most noted that hot dogs contribute to cardiovascular issues, cancer and obesity.
Consumption Rates
According to the National Hot Dog & Sausage Council (NHDSC), Americans are expected to eat 7 billion hot dogs from Memorial Day to Labor Day, a span of time known as “peak hot dog season.”
Healthier Alternatives
Fortunately for colons across the country, it appears many people are open to potentially healthier stadium alternatives.
Forty percent of polled adults said they would try a plant-based hot dog if they were looking for food at a baseball stadium, and 63% believe stadiums should make these dogs available.
Sixty-three percent of adults believe stadiums should make plant-based hot dogs available. Jason Stitt – stock.adobe.com
“The good news is that many stadiums across the country now offer plant-based hot dogs as alternatives to meat hot dogs,” said Praamsma. “Fans who trade even one serving of processed meat a day for a plant-based alternative would hit a home run for their health.”
Benefits of a Plant-Based Diet
The pros of eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, oils, whole grains, legumes and beans are well-established.
Choosing unprocessed plant-based options over processed meats supports good blood pressure, better blood sugar and a healthier body mass index while lowering cancer risk.
If you select a plant-based dog, check for extra sodium, added sugars, artificial colors, additives and saturated fat content. Some may not be as healthy as they seem.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while hot dogs may be a popular ballpark treat, they pose significant health risks, including an increased risk of colorectal cancer. By opting for plant-based alternatives and being mindful of the ingredients in the foods we eat, we can reduce our risk of developing this and other diseases. It’s time to think twice before grabbing that hot dog at the ballpark and consider a healthier option instead.
FAQs
Q: What is the main health risk associated with eating hot dogs?
A: The main health risk associated with eating hot dogs is an increased risk of colorectal cancer.
Q: How many hot dogs do Americans eat each year?
A: Americans are expected to eat 7 billion hot dogs from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Q: What is a healthier alternative to traditional hot dogs?
A: Plant-based hot dogs are a healthier alternative to traditional hot dogs.
Q: What are the benefits of a plant-based diet?
A: The benefits of a plant-based diet include good blood pressure, better blood sugar, a healthier body mass index, and a reduced risk of cancer.
Q: How can I make healthier choices at the ballpark?
A: You can make healthier choices at the ballpark by opting for plant-based hot dogs, checking the ingredients in the foods you eat, and choosing snacks like roasted peanuts instead of processed meats.
