The link between type 2 diabetes and processed meat
Processed meat is used to refer to meats that have been prepared to improve flavor or shelf life with methods such as salting, fermentation or smoking.
A new study from the University of Cambridge (UK) has highlighted the link between developing type 2 diabetes and eating processed meat such as ham, bacon, and red meat such as beef and lamb. .
This study used data from nearly 2 million people. Participants were followed for an average of 10 years. During this time, about one in 20 people developed type 2 diabetes.
Research shows that for every 100g of red meat eaten per day, the risk of type 2 diabetes increases by 10%; 50g of processed meat consumed per day was associated with an even higher risk of disease.
Processed meat has been linked to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes due to its content of nitrates and salt - additives used to cure many processed meats.
Nitrates and salt in processed meats have also been linked to an increased risk of colon cancer. In fact, the World Health Organization classifies these additives as group 1 carcinogens, meaning they can cause a wide range of cancers.
The mechanism linking processed meat to cancer appears to be similar to how it may be linked to type 2 diabetes. Because, during digestion, processed meat produces N-nitroso chemicals, can cause cell damage. This can lead to inflammation and affect the way insulin, the hormone that controls blood sugar.
You should limit barbecues and bacon
Researchers from Cambridge University advise people to have a diet rich in unprocessed or lightly processed foods such as: fruits, vegetables, legumes and nuts, and whole grains. And especially need to limit consumption of red and processed meat.
To reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes is to maintain a healthy weight and be as physically active as possible.
A healthy diet should be based on plenty of vegetables, fruits, beans, peas, lentils, nuts and seeds, along with some whole grain foods, some dairy products, fish and white meat (or vegetarian alternatives), plus moderate amounts of red and minimally processed meat.
