| Vegan Health News | April 21 2009 |
Red Meat Linked to Early Death
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Another large study has shown that eating meat increases your risk of mortality. Red meat, long associated with cancer and heart disease, is now linked to increased risk of death from all causes.
In this new study, National Cancer Institute researchers looked at the diets of more than half a million people aged 50 to 71 and found that those who ate 4 ounces of red meat a day - about the size of a small hamburger - were the most likely to die from heart disease, cancer, and all causes over the next 10 years. Beef, pork, bacon, sausage, cold cuts, hot dogs, and other red or processed meats all increased the odds of premature death.
The study authors also noted that the increased death rates found in study participants may be "conservative estimates because red and processed meat consumption may be higher in the general population."
White meat intake was similarly associated with increased cardiovascular disease mortality in men overall. Among both male and female nonsmokers, higher white meat intake was associated with increased cardiovascular disease mortality but with slightly reduced cancer mortality.
While risks are, in some cases, higher for red meat consumption, compared with white meat, there is no evidence that risks associated with white meat intake are outweighed by benefits.
Science continues to confirm the benefits of plant-based diets. This is a great time to start a meat-free diet - and to bring friends and family along to enjoy good health and longevity.
You can find thousands of recipes on www.NutritionMD.org, and can tune in to Food for Life TV for live webcasts about healthy eating, including cooking demonstrations by chefs and nutritionists. Also, sign up to receive PCRM's Breaking Medical News to be the first to hear about other landmark studies.
Sincerely,
Susan Levin, M.S., R.D.
Staff Dietitian
Source: PCRM News.
Editor's Note: Another good reason to save your health, avoid the cruelty and Go Vegan!
