6 popular peanut butters linked to colon cancerStory by Son of Grey Peanut butter is a staple in many households, loved for its creamy texture, nutty flavor, and protein content. However, not all peanut butter is created equal. Certain types of commercially processed peanut butter may contain added sugars, unhealthy oils, and chemical contaminants that studies suggest could increase the risk of colorectal cancer. Understanding which kinds to avoid can help you enjoy peanut butter safely while maintaining a healthy diet. Here’s a look at kinds of peanut butter linked to colon cancer risks. Peanut Butter with Added Hydrogenated OilsMany mass-market peanut butters contain hydrogenated oils to improve shelf life and prevent separation. These trans fats are widely linked to inflammation and increased cancer risk, including colon cancer. Common brands with older formulations that included hydrogenated oils include Skippy Creamy Peanut Butter and Jif Creamy Peanut Butter. While these brands have reformulated many of their products to remove partially hydrogenated oils, older stock and certain varieties may still pose risks. Peanut Butter High in Added SugarsExcessive sugar consumption has been associated with chronic inflammation and insulin resistance, factors that can contribute to colon cancer development. Many flavored or “sweetened” peanut butters—such as Reese’s Peanut Butter Spread or honey-flavored supermarket brands—contain high amounts of added sugar beyond what’s naturally in peanuts. These products are convenient for desserts and snacks but may carry hidden health risks when consumed frequently. Peanut Butter Contaminated with AflatoxinsAflatoxins are naturally occurring toxins produced by molds on peanuts, particularly if storage conditions are poor. Long-term exposure to aflatoxins has been linked to liver cancer and may contribute indirectly to colorectal cancer risk due to systemic inflammation and DNA damage. While major brands like Smucker’s Natural Peanut Butter and Planters Peanut Butter test rigorously for aflatoxins, lower-cost store brands or imported peanut butters may be more likely to contain small amounts of these toxins. Ultra-Processed Peanut ButtersUltra-processed peanut butters often contain a mix of additives, stabilizers, and preservatives that can affect gut health. Poor gut microbiome balance is increasingly recognized as a factor in colon cancer risk. Brands like Peter Pan Extra Crunchy or value-line supermarket peanut butters may include emulsifiers and stabilizers that are generally safe in small amounts but could have cumulative effects over time when consumed daily. Tips for Choosing Safer Peanut ButterOpt for natural or “just peanuts” varieties with no added hydrogenated oils or sugars. Check for aflatoxin testing or certifications from major brands. Store peanut butter properly in a cool, dry pantry or refrigerate to reduce mold growth. Moderate consumption to avoid excess calories, sugars, or unhealthy fats. While peanut butter can be a healthy protein and fiber source, products with hydrogenated oils, added sugars, aflatoxin contamination, or excessive processing may contribute to colon cancer risk. Choosing natural, minimally processed peanut butter from trusted brands like Smucker’s Natural, MaraNatha, or 365 by Whole Foods, and storing it carefully, can help you enjoy this classic snack safely and responsibly. ARTICLE SOURCE: https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/other/6-popular-peanut-butters-linked-to-colon-cancer/ar-AA1WvYFn?
Good morning, y'all. 🙂
I've been on the low carb/ultra low carb train before and have gotten good results in the past at bringing my blood sugar under control. Sooner or later I've fallen off the train. And been run over on the tracks. But here I am, back again. 🙄
Full disclosure: I will not be doing strictly 100% carnivore, but I came to this board because eating plenty of meat (and only a smidgen of dairy) is the foolproof way to bring my blood sugar down. And to lose weight. Those two things go hand in hand, although even if/when I lose 20-ish pounds, I will always have to watch carbs closely. (Mostly WATCH, as in stare longingly at without touching...).
I'll be 77 a week from today and it's now or never. (Hmmm...how many times have I said "It's now or never" in the past? I don't have enough fingers to total that up.) I live in a senior retirement community (totally independent living) where meals are provided, but I have a full kitchen and cook mostly for myself. I like to cook, but frankly, I'm not looking forward to beef, pork, chicken, eggs, bacon, etc., all the time and forever. Some video that I watched said that if hamburger or a pork chop or some meat thing doesn't appeal, then you aren't hungry enough. I think waiting until I am seriously hungry will help. I have been guilty of just grazing and looking for something to eat (even a low carb snack) out of boredom and idleness.
I became mesmerized by YouTube videos on the carnivore diet, especially the "steakandbuttergal." Is she for real? Watching her put several steaks and chickens into that slender figure is mind-blowing. I do believe she has straightened out her health with a carnivore diet. I also have skin problems and G.I. issues, not to mention the stuff that happens when you get...well... old.
For the last week I've eaten only meat and eggs, and my blood sugar has gone from almost 200 most of the time to under 120 most of the time. This exactly tallies with my experience with ultra low carb eating in the past. (I haven't done an a1c test, because that is not revealing for three months.)
People who say low-carb is fad or some kind of cult craze just need to get a glucometer and find out for themselves.
That's a little sketch. Hoping to find inspiration in this community, especially from others who live alone and plan their own meals.
Best,
Eve
Edited by Eve