Bacon Lovers Beware: Cutting 10 Slices a Week Could Save Lives

Reduce Processed Meat Intake by 30% to Improve Public Health, Says Study

The Study and Its Findings

A recent study conducted by the University of Edinburgh reveals that cutting down on processed meat intake can have significant health benefits. Eating less bacon, sausages, and deli meats can reduce the number of cases of chronic diseases in the U.S. It found that if Americans were to reduce their processed meat intake by only 30%, it could lead to almost 353,000 fewer cases of Type 2 diabetes, 92,500 fewer cases of cardiovascular disease, and 53,300 fewer cases of colorectal cancer over 10 years.

The researchers utilized a computer model, mSHIFT (micro-Simulation of the Health Impacts of Food Transformations), to estimate the health impacts of lowering meat consumption. The model accounted for differences across demographic groups and incorporated data on current meat consumption patterns in the US. The findings were based on the effective scenario of a 30% reduction in meat intake that was achievable and easy to implement.

The study emphasized that the health benefits were more evident for processed meats, which have been classified as carcinogenic by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. However, they noted that there is uncertainty surrounding the health effects of unprocessed red meat. The researchers recommended limiting processed meat intake and considering specific advice to the public in the 2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

Healthy Eating Made Easy

Trying to reduce processed meat intake can be challenging, but instead of eliminating it altogether, start by cutting back a little. Making dietary changes can be a clear win-win for both people and the planet.

Here's a delicious and healthy recipe that can help reduce meat intake:

Sweet Potato and Avocado Breakfast

Ingredients:

• 1 sweet potato
• 1 avocado
• 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Peel and dice the sweet potato into small cubes.
2. Add olive oil, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the sweet potato cubes. Mix until the potato cubes are entirely coated with the mixture.
3. Heat a skillet on medium heat, then add the sweet potato cubes to the skillet and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. After 15 minutes, cut the avocado in half and remove the pit. Cut the avocado into cubes and mix with the sweet potato.
5. Squeeze the fresh lemon juice over the mixture and serve hot.

This breakfast dish is a flavorful and healthy alternative that could replace processed meat from your morning meal. It's rich in nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, and most importantly, it's naturally delicious!

Originally Post From https://studyfinds.org/cutting-out-bacon-save-lives/

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