A new study has revealed that eating processed red meat could significantly increase the risk of dementia.
According to The Guardian, a study that observed over 100,000 people for four decades suggested that processed red meat could be a significant risk for cognitive decline.
The findings of the study were presented at the Alzheimer’s Association international conference in the US.
The lead author of the study, Dr. Yuhan Li, explained, “Study results have been mixed on whether there is a relationship between cognitive decline and meat consumption in general, so we took a closer look at how eating different amounts of both processed and unprocessed meat affects cognitive risk and function.”
She further added, “By studying people over a long period of time, we found that eating processed red meat could be a significant risk factor for dementia. Dietary guidelines could include recommendations limiting it to promote brain health.”
To note, earlier, processed red meat showed an increased risk of cancer, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. Now the researchers have uncovered its potential link to dementia.
However, the study also suggested a solution to lower the risks of dementia.
As per the study, replacing processed red meat with healthier foods such as beans, tofu, or nuts could show promising results in overcoming the risk of dementia.
Dr. Richard Oakley, of the Alzheimer’s Society in the UK, urged, “It’s important to remember that this doesn’t mean that eating processed red meat is directly related to developing dementia. It may be that people who avoid processed red meat are generally more health conscious and avoid other unhealthy habits that increase dementia risk.”
