Pork is quite popular. But be careful, the dangers of pork need to be watched out for. Especially if this meat is not processed properly or consumed in excess.
In addition to protein, the content of saturated fat in pork is also very high. That is why, consuming pork too often can cause fat deposits in the body. These fatty deposits will cause high cholesterol levels in the blood, thereby increasing the risk of heart disease.
The Disease Risk Behind the Danger of Pork
Besides being able to trigger heart disease, consumption of pork is also at risk of causing:
1. Parasitic infections (worms)
You need to know that consuming raw or undercooked pork is very risky to cause parasitic infections. This can happen when pork contains tapeworms and worms Trichinella spiralis which can cause trichinosis.
2. Liver cancer and cirrhosis
Although it still needs to be investigated further, a study shows a relationship between consuming pork and the emergence of liver disease, especially liver cancer and cirrhosis.
This is due to the compound N-nitroso which is found in abundance in processed pork products cooked at high temperatures. In addition, the high content of polyunsaturated fat in pork is also an underlying factor in liver disease.
3. Hepatitis E
Hepatitis E infection is usually caused by drinking water that has been contaminated with this virus. In addition, hepatitis E infection can also be caused by consuming raw or undercooked pork, especially the liver.
4. Multiple sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis caused by a disorder of the immune system that attacks the protective membranes of the nerves and spinal cord. Researchers found a link between eating pork and an increased risk of developing diabetes multiple sclerosis.
This association was not found in the consumption of other meats, such as beef or mutton. One reason is that pork may contain prion, namely proteins that can trigger nerve disorders and damage. In addition, the consumption of undercooked pork is also at risk of transmitting the nipah virus.
Tips Avoiding the Danger of Pork
Like other types of meat, pork can be processed in various ways. But to avoid the dangers of pork, pay attention to the following things before you process it:
- Check pork product labels before buying. Choose pork products that have legal certification.
- Wash both hands before processing pork.
- Choose lean cuts of pork.
- Avoid frying pork in oil. The frying process will increase the number of calories in the pork, because the fat from the oil will be absorbed into the meat.
- If you eat at a restaurant, choose a pork menu that is braised, grilled, or grilled, rather than fried.
- Avoid adding lard to the sauce barbecue or food.
- Avoid eating raw meat or undercooking it, as this can lead to worm infections and hepatitis.
In 2020, researchers found that many swine flu viruses mutated into a new type of virus called the G4 virus. Although there are no case reports that say that the virus can be transmitted through consumption of pork, it is better if you continue to process pork until it is fully cooked when you want to eat pork as a preventive measure against the virus.
Choose pork carefully and process it according to the suggestions above to avoid the health hazards of pork. One more thing that is no less important, avoid consuming pork in excess.
Consult your doctor if you experience health problems after consuming pork, so that you can be treated immediately.
