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?
I could write my 25 year-old story of how I got here, if anyone is interested, of how I was afraid to eat fat back then -- even though I had seen the results of a friend who went on the Atkins diet, and I'd read "The Cholesterol Myths," by Uffe Ravnskov, shortly after it was translated to English. He was obviously right, beyond "a shadow of a doubt," but it took a couple more similar books and at least a year to overcome the decades-long idea that fat, butter, etc. was bad for me and the substitutes were good for me.
I ran into a guy in town yesterday (I live in a rural area, there is a one-traffic light town five miles away) that I know quite well, but haven't seen him in several years. He is almost 79 and he told me he is diabetic and has to inject insulin (he had a heart attack 6-8 years ago). I told him get rid of the carbs if you want to really fight the disease. I explained to him what I meant by "carbs," and that he could eat all the meat he wants, along with very low-carb veggies.
"Have you seen the price of meat lately?" was his response. Then he went on about how well his wife is taking care of him, making sure he gets all his meds on time, etc. Okay, that is certainly great and I'm glad for him; that's a valuable resource that I don't have. But they're apparently following the "Standard of Care" for diabetics, so we know he is never going to get better or ever get off the drugs.
What I thought of later, that I didn't think of at the time, to his comment about the price of meat, was "What price would you pay for not going blind? Or not having your feet chopped off?"
He's very adept at the internet, so hopefully I put a bug in his ear and maybe he'll do some research. "You can lead a horse to water . . . "