You’ve probably heard that eating a lot of red meat can have ill effects on health. Red meat has been linked to a higher risk of heart disease and cancer. The reason for the increased risk is that red meat contains saturated fat, which can raise cholesterol levels. Experts generally recommend keeping red meat consumption to a moderate or minimal level. The total amount of protein people need per day is between 5 and 6.5 ounces. But, that protein should come from several different sources, including beans, fish, and nuts, not just red meat. Though moderate amounts of red meat are generally considered safe, a new study indicates that even eating small amounts could raise the risk of death.
Eating Red Meat Linked to Higher Mortality Risk
Researchers at Loma Linda University Health in California wanted to examine how eating even small amounts of red or processed meat affected health. The scientists decided to look at information gathered in a survey called the Adventist Health Study-2. The survey was conducted between 2002 and 2007. All of the respondents were Seventh-day Adventists. Adventists were the perfect group to use for this study because around 50 percent of them are vegetarian and the other 50 percent don’t eat very much meat.
The researchers looked at what caused the death of 7,900 participants who responded to the survey. They also looked at information gathered from a questionnaire concerning their eating habits. The people who ate meat consumed 2 or fewer ounces daily. The results of the study showed that 2,600 of the participants died from cardiovascular disease and 1,800 died from cancer. The scientists say that these results indicate that even eating a little red or processed meat can increase the risk of death from cancer or heart disease.
Good Sources of Protein
Although it isn’t necessary to completely cut red meat from your aging relative’s diet, it is a good idea to have the majority of their protein come from other sources. Some good sources of protein include:
- Fish.
- Poultry.
- Low-fat dairy products.
- Beans.
- Nuts.
- Seeds.
- Soy products, like tofu.
Senior care can help your older family member to eat less red meat and more protein from other sources. Senior care providers can help the older adult to plan healthy meals and take them grocery shopping for the ingredients. Senior care providers can also assist with cooking or do all the cooking for your loved one, ensuring they eat delicious, balanced meals on a regular basis.
Sources
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324891.php
https://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/guide/good-protein-sources
https://www.helpguide.org/articles/healthy-eating/choosing-healthy-protein.htm/
https://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/features/the-truth-about-red-meat#1
IF YOU OR AN AGING LOVED ONE ARE CONSIDERING SENIOR CARE IN SUMMERLIN, NV, PLEASE CONTACT THE CARING STAFF AT GOLDEN HEART SENIOR CARE OF SUMMERLIN. 702-800-4616.