Pig meat, commonly known as pork, has been a popular choice of meat for many people across different cultures around the world due to the fact that it’s a good source of vitamins B6 and B12, Protein, Niacin, Zinc, and iron, amongst other nutrients.....CONTINUE READING
Despite these promising nutrients in pork, studies revealed some of the downsides attached to its consumption. Let’s take a look at some of them:
1. According to Webmd, Pig meat is relatively high in fat, particularly saturated fat and sodium. These nutrients in high proportion can increase one’s risk of developing heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular issues, especially due to elevated levels of bad cholesterol.
2. Consuming undercooked pork can lead to parasitic infections like taeniasis, which is caused by a tapeworm, and Trichinosis (caused by Trichinella spirallis). Both parasitic infections occur when an individual ingests the larvae in undercooked pork. The larvae develop into adult worms in the intestines and muscle tissues, leading to symptoms such as muscle pain, fever, and swelling of the eyes.
3. Pork liver is one of the key transmitters of Hepatitis E infection in many countries of the world, including Japan, France, and Germany, amongst others. Hepatitis E infections cause inflammation of the heart (Myocarditis) and affect the liver cells, which manifest via symptoms like jaundice (yellowing of the eyes) and others.
4. Undercooked pork can cause Yersiniosis, which is caused by the Yersinia bacteria. Acute symptoms of Yersiniosis may include poisoning, neurological conditions, hemorrhagic diarrhoea, fever, and pain.
