Processed Red Meat And Risk Of Dementia

The Study

Over 490,000 subjects from the British UK Biobank cohort study had their processed red meat consumption measured and were followed for the development of dementia.  By the end of the 8-year follow up, subjects consuming processed red meat 5 or more times per week had a 67% higher risk of dementia when compared to subjects who rarely consumed processed red meat. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 2021 114: 175-84.

Take Home Message

The authors believed that the nitrates used in processed red meats could cause oxidative stress that contributes to the development of dementia. Other possible mechanisms include the high sodium and saturated fat content of processed red meat. Strictly limit bacon, sausage, pepperoni and other processed red meats. Focus on lean meats like chicken and turkey, seafood, nuts and legumes for your protein choices.