Article content
According to the latest research from the Harvard School of Public Health, regular consumption of a certain type of meat can significantly increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This research, published in the prestigious journal The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, brings alarming results.
Research and its findings
During a 36-year study that included more than 200,000 participants, it was found that 22,000 people developed type 2 diabetes. The risk of developing diabetes increased significantly among those who regularly consumed processed and unprocessed red meat. Those who ate red meat at least twice a week had more than a 62 percent higher likelihood of developing diabetes compared to those who ate meat less often.
Impact of replacing meat with plant proteins
The study also showed that replacing red meat with plant sources of protein, such as nuts and legumes, led to a 30 percent reduction in diabetes risk. In contrast, replacing it with dairy products reduced the risk by 22 percent. These results suggest that changing eating habits can have a significant impact on diabetes prevention.
Experts’ recommendations
Walter Willett, the study’s lead author, highlights the importance of paying attention to our dietary habits. “Even consuming red meat once a week can have a serious impact on our health,” Willett says. He recommends reducing meat consumption, which will not only help improve our health but also help reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with food production, thereby supporting the fight against climate change.
Environmental aspects
The research also emphasizes the dangers of processed meat, such as hot dogs, sausages, ham, bacon, and salami. Their regular consumption has a harmful impact not only on human health but also on the environment. Therefore, it is important to pay attention not only to the amount of meat consumed but also to its type, in order to protect both our health and the planet.
Conclusion
This research confirms that changing eating habits can have a decisive impact on diabetes prevention and environmental protection. Focusing on plant proteins and limiting the consumption of red and processed meat can bring significant health and ecological benefits.
