A shocking new study has found that eating a certain common food every day can increase the risk of Type 2 diabetes by 11%. This finding highlights the important role diet plays in chronic disease risk.
Type 2 diabetes affects about one in ten Americans and can cause serious health complications if untreated, including heart and kidney disease, nerve damage, strokes, and amputations. While genetics are a factor, lifestyle choices like diet and physical activity greatly influence risk.
The University of Washington researchers examined over 60 studies on processed meats, sugary drinks, and trans fats. They discovered that even small amounts consumed regularly are linked to higher risks of Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and colorectal cancer.
Specifically, eating one hot dog or equivalent processed meat daily was associated with an 11% increase in diabetes risk and a 7% increase in colorectal cancer risk. Consuming 50 grams of processed meat daily raised diabetes risk by 30% and colorectal cancer risk by 26%.
The researchers concluded that no amount of processed meat is safe in terms of these health risks. The study also found that drinking 12 ounces of sugar-sweetened beverages daily increased diabetes risk by 8% and heart disease risk by 2%.
Other research supports these findings, such as a study showing that one can of soda can reduce life expectancy by 12 minutes, while a beef hot dog could shorten it by 36 minutes.
Health professionals recommend cutting back on processed meats and sugary drinks but emphasize balance. Food is also about enjoyment and social connection, so a healthy, sensible diet that allows room for pleasure is the best way forward.
