We all love it: the traditional Melon-Jambon sits on all summer tables. A classic that has nothing to envy to the Houmous and other seasonal sandwich. However, since it contains cold meats-one can wonder if it is “good” to make it its favorite entry. Alexandra Murcier, dietician-nutritionist, sheds light on this subject.
Le Melon-Jambon, a classic that must be wary of?
We are repeated quite often: in ham, everything is good. Except that in reality, this popular saying is rather false. The raw ham is one of the ultra -processed cold meats, just like sausage, mortadelle or coppa.
In a previous paper, Raphaël Gruman, dietitian, pointed out their high content in saturated and calories, increasing cardiovascular risks. “”What is problematic is the content of saturated fats, responsible for the formation of atheroma plates in the arteries “, he said.
Plates, which can cause serious cardiovascular complications, such as myocardial infarction, a stroke (stroke) or even an angina.
But beyond these risks, the nitrites present in these cold meats also pose a serious problem. Used to improve the conservation and color of pork products, including raw ham, these additives (E249, E250, E251, E252) are classified as potentially “carcinogenic”. They are also accused of participating in the development of many stomach and colon cancers.
Sufficient red flags to do without this entry forever? Here is what our specialist says.
What does our expert think of this entry?
Alexandra Murcier, dietician-nutritionist, is more nuanced.
“”Admittedly, this entry is very rich in salt and saturated fatty acids, but raw ham is also a good source of protein. From time to time, we can therefore consume it. On the other hand, it is necessary to be careful and to check that the ham does not contain nitrites, conservatives present in many cold meats, but very harmful for the body because they increase the risk of digestive cancer “, she alerts.
If possible, and in order to limit the salt intake during the day, it is best not to consume cheese during the same meal, says the expert.
“Regarding the melon, although it has a relatively high glycemic index, it should not be considered a sweet product. It is a source of beta-carotene and has several nutritional advantages. Finally, to balance this entry, you can limit itself to a quarter of melon and complete the plate with, for example, salad”, concludes the specialist.