Beware of pigs and pork!

As a physician, I know that bacon, ham and pork chops are never going to good for our hearts (“This salmon has an oink; genetically altered pork high in omega-3” News, March 27).

Pork, like other meats, has no fiber, is high in cholesterol and saturated fat, and has usual hormones/antibiotics. Diets high in cholesterol and fat can contribute to cardiovascular disease and other health problems.

And even pork that is enhanced with omega-3 fatty acids won’t do our hearts any good.

A new British Medical Journal study found no evidence of health benefits from taking omega-3 supplements or eating oily fish.

We can get all omega-3 fatty acids we need from healthy sources, including citrus fruits, legumes, ground flaxseed and green leafy vegetables.

These foods are naturally low fat, full of fiber and cholesterol free.

That healthfulness is something that pork can never provide.

Dennis Gates, MD

A pig by any name…

Chicago Tribune, Commentary, April 8, 2006, p.11