The Chief Executive Officer of Nutrivive Dietetic Consult, Benedicta Kessewah Addo, has cautioned women to be mindful of their alcohol and processed meat intake, citing their potential link to cancer and other chronic diseases.
Speaking in an interview on Bullet TV’s Morning Target, the dietitian emphasized the need for moderation and awareness when it comes to lifestyle choices that affect long-term health.
“If you’re a woman and your alcohol intake is frequent or excessive, it’s important to start working towards either cutting it out completely or reducing it significantly, the same caution applies to red and processed meats” Ms. Addo advised.
She explained that both alcohol and processed meats can expose the body to carcinogens—chemicals known to cause cancer.
According to her, carcinogens often find their way into common foods without people realizing it. She cited popular Ghanaian street foods such as kebabs, locally known as “chichinga”, as examples of foods that may contain harmful compounds.
“Whenever oil drips onto an open flame during grilling, it produces smoke that releases carcinogenic substances called polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs),”
“These compounds cling to the surface of the meat, increasing the risk of developing various cancers over time.” Ms. Addo noted
She urged women to pay closer attention to how they prepare and consume their meals, stressing that adopting healthier cooking methods can significantly reduce cancer risks.
“As women, it’s essential to be mindful of how we prepare and consume our meals.”
“Through better cooking methods and healthier food choices, we can reduce our exposure to cancer-causing agents and improve overall well-being.” she added.
