It's a protein food... but eating too much of it can actually increase the risk of dementia.

 

A study found that frequent consumption of processed meat increases the risk of developing dementia, and that consuming legumes or nuts instead of processed meat can reduce the risk of developing dementia.

 

A research team at Brigham and Women's Hospital in the United States followed 130,000 adults for 43 years. The team collected nutritional data from the participants every two to four years. They measured how often they consumed processed red meat, nuts, and legumes. They then compared the cognitive function of those who frequently consumed processed meat with those who rarely did.

The analysis found that those who frequently consumed processed meat (at least two servings per day) had a 14% higher risk of developing dementia than those who rarely consumed it (less than three servings per month). For every additional serving of processed meat consumed daily, the brain regions controlling language and behavior aged 1.6 years. However, replacing 40g of processed meat with the same amount of beans or nuts reduced the risk of cognitive decline by 20%.

A previous study of approximately 500,000 adults found that consuming 25 grams of processed meat per day increased the risk of dementia by 44%. This amount is equivalent to about one strip of bacon or a slice of ham.

The research team analyzed that nitrates added during the processing of processed meats negatively impact brain function. Nitrates are converted into nitrosamines in the body, damaging cells and neurons and impairing cognitive function. Nitrosamines promote brain inflammation, degrading important neurotransmitters and forming plaques that worsen brain health. Furthermore, the saturated fat and cholesterol in processed meats accumulate in blood vessels, restricting blood flow to the brain and contributing to cognitive decline.

 

 

Replacing processed meats with legumes or nuts can help prevent harmful nitrates, sodium, and toxins from entering the body. The nutrients in legumes and nuts help improve blood circulation and brain health.

“This study is one of the most robust studies linking processed meat consumption to dementia because it followed individuals for decades,” said lead study author Dr. Maria Carrillo.

 

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When I think of processed meats, I always think of sodium intake.

For vascular health... it's better to eat less processed meat.

 

Beans and nuts are said to be good for blood vessel health.

Take it with you as a snack