Not all red meats are created equal, but processed red meats like bacon, ham, jerky, sausages, and hot dogs are the worst for runners and other athletes to consume. Eating processed red meats has been linked to health complications such as high blood pressure, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and even bowel or stomach cancer. Many believe that processed red meats may cause cancer due to the nitrates that are found in them. These nitrates are used to preserve the color of the meat and to prevent bacteria from spreading. Nitrate levels are the highest when the meats are cured, smoked, or charred. Researchers believe that high nitrate levels increase a person’s risk of developing cancer. This does not mean that you cannot eat processed red meats ever again. Researchers only suggest limiting our intake of such foods and refrain from charring or curing red meat.