People who consume large amounts of processed meat may also eat fewer fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and other nutrient-rich foods.
Processed Meat and Heart Health
Regularly eating large amounts of processed meat has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
One possible contributor is its relatively high sodium content.
Excess sodium can contribute to increased blood pressure in some people.
High blood pressure is an important risk factor for:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Heart failure
- Kidney problems
Processed meats can also contain significant amounts of saturated fat, depending on the product.
A diet high in saturated fat can contribute to unfavorable blood cholesterol levels in some individuals.
Possible Connection With Type 2 Diabetes
Studies have also found an association between higher consumption of processed meat and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
The exact reasons are not completely understood.
Several factors may contribute, including:
- Sodium
- Saturated fat
- Preservatives
- Overall dietary patterns
- Body weight
- Metabolic health
It is important to remember that an association does not automatically mean that processed meat directly causes diabetes in every person.
Processed Meat and Cancer Risk
One of the most discussed concerns involves cancer.
The International Agency for Research on Cancer has classified processed meat as carcinogenic to humans, based on evidence linking its consumption with colorectal cancer.
