A new study has found that consuming processed meats, such as ham, significantly raises the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. According to research published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, eating just 50 grams of processed meat daily—the equivalent of two slices of ham—increases the risk by 15%.
The study analyzed data from nearly 2 million people across 20 countries, examining the relationship between diabetes risk and the consumption of unprocessed red meat, processed meat, and poultry. Researchers from Cambridge University discovered that while eating 100 grams of steak daily increased diabetes risk by 10%, the link between poultry consumption and the disease was less clear.
Nick Wareham, a senior author from Cambridge University, emphasized the significant impact of meat consumption on diabetes risk, stating, “Reducing consumption of processed meats could reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.”
The findings add to growing evidence about the health risks of processed meats, suggesting that even moderate reductions in intake could lower diabetes risk. Health experts recommend a shift towards plant-based diets and reducing processed meat consumption to improve health outcomes, especially in countries with high meat consumption.
Globally, diabetes affects 537 million people, with type 2 diabetes accounting for about 90% of cases. The prevalence of type 2 diabetes is increasing, particularly in rapidly developing regions like Africa. This study’s findings highlight the importance of dietary choices in managing and preventing the disease.