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Life Tips 26/06/2025 17:02

Doctor issues a warning about a common BBQ food pairing that might silently increase your canc3r risk

Plus, other health risks to be aware of when firing up the BBQ this weekend
A doctor has warned that a popular summer food and drink combination could be subtly increasing your cancer risk – without you even realizing it.
As Brits fire up their grills this summer, many will indulge in sizzling sausages, burgers, and ice-cold beers. However, experts caution that this classic pairing could do more harm than good.
The problem isn’t just about what you eat or drink, but how these two interact with each other.
Certain summer favorites, like processed meats and alcohol, might actually amplify each other’s cancer-causing effects when consumed together.
Dr. Jiri Kubes, a leading oncologist at the Proton Therapy Center in Prague, explains that the issue lies in alcohol’s impact on how the body processes harmful substances.
“Processed and chargrilled meats already contain chemicals, such as nitrates and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), that are linked to increased cancer risk,” he said.
“However, when alcohol is consumed alongside them, it can facilitate the absorption of these carcinogens into the bloodstream – creating a particularly dangerous combination.”
Dr. Kubes elaborates that alcohol acts as a "carrier", damaging the lining of the mouth, throat, and stomach, which makes it easier for cancer-causing substances to take hold.
"This is why consuming alcohol with processed meat – like having a hot dog with a beer – can be more harmful than either one alone," he added.
So, what should you be eating instead?
While it’s not necessary to avoid summer festivities entirely, Dr. Kubes recommends making smarter food choices.
“Consider swapping out heavily processed sausages and burgers for grilled fish, veggie skewers, or lean meats like chicken,” he advised. “If you're drinking, keep it moderate and pair it with fresh salads or whole grains, which are rich in fiber and antioxidants.”
Dr. Kubes also emphasizes the importance of not over-charring food on the grill.
“The blackened, crispy parts may taste good, but they often contain carcinogenic compounds,” he said. “Keep your flame low, and avoid overcooking meat to the point where it becomes crisp or blackened.”
Public awareness about these food combinations remains low, according to Dr. Kubes, but raising awareness is crucial.
“Many people think it’s fine to have a few drinks and a burger now and then, but if this happens frequently over the summer, the risks can quietly accumulate,” he explained. “Small changes now can make a big difference to your long-term health.”
Processed and red meats and their connection to cancer
Processed meats and red meats have both been associated with an increased risk of cancer.
Consuming processed meat increases the risk of bowel cancer, with research showing that even small amounts can elevate the risk.
The risk posed by processed meat is comparable to that of tobacco and alcohol.
Experts also believe that eating red meat likely increases the risk of bowel cancer.
Cancer Research UK states: "Red meat is classified as a probable cause of cancer. There is substantial evidence linking red meat consumption to bowel cancer, although it’s not as strong as the evidence for processed meat."
"In scientific studies, it’s often difficult to isolate red meat consumption from processed meat consumption."
There is also some evidence to suggest that processed and red meats may increase the risk of other types of cancer, such as stomach and pancreatic cancers, though more research is needed.
Alcohol and its connection to cancer
Alcohol consumption has been linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer, including those of the mouth, throat, voice box, esophagus, colon, rectum, liver, and breast.
Some studies suggest that drinking three or more alcoholic drinks daily increases the risk of stomach and pancreatic cancers.
All alcoholic beverages, regardless of type, raise the risk of cancer.
The current NHS guidelines advise that both men and women should not regularly drink more than 14 units of alcohol per week. It's also recommended to spread this intake over at least three days and have several alcohol-free days each week.
If you regularly consume up to 14 units of alcohol per week, it’s important to spread it out and incorporate drink-free days into your routine.

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