Study Links Processed Meat to Dementia Risk

A comprehensive study spanning four decades has linked the consumption of processed red meat, such as bacon and hot dogs, to a 14% increased risk of dementia among individuals who consume two servings per week compared to those who eat less than three servings a month. The research, which involved over 130,000 participants, found that each additional serving of processed red meat correlates with approximately 1.6 years of cognitive aging. Conversely, replacing one serving of processed red meat daily with nuts, beans, or tofu could lower the risk of cognitive decline by 20%. Experts emphasize that a diet rich in whole foods, particularly plant-based options, contributes to better brain health and counters the adverse effects of processed diets. The findings were presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference and have not yet undergone peer review. Overall, this research adds to existing evidence on the health risks associated with processed foods, including their links to cancer and cardiovascular diseases.