You might want to rethink your snack choices the next time you feel like munching on a hot dog or a deli sandwich, as recent research has found a worrying link between eating processed meat and the risk of developing dementia.
Research presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference this week suggests that those who regularly eat ultra-processed red meat such as hot dogs, bacon, sausage, salami and bologna.
Ultra-processed foods (UPF) are products containing ingredients not normally found in the home kitchen, the Independent reported.
These include soy protein isolate, high fructose corn syrup, modified starches, flavorings or colorings.
These findings add to a growing body of evidence linking UPF to adverse health effects that contribute to diseases such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
UPFs are prevalent favorites such as staples such as cereals, sodas, flavored yogurts and more.
The study reports that diets high in UPF lack the nutritional richness that may help reduce the risk of dementia.
But the researchers say previous studies examining different diets suggest a lower risk of cognitive conditions in people who eat less ultra-processed meat.
A study from the REGARDS (Reasons for Geographic And Racial Differences in Stroke) project, which examined non-Hispanic black and white Americans aged 45 and older in 2003 and 2007, found that it was associated with a 10% increase in UPF consumption. with a higher risk of cognitive impairment and stroke.
Experts recommend reading product labels often to avoid these products.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is developing a new front-of-package labeling system that clearly shows sugar, sodium and saturated fat levels.
