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.
This classification does not mean that eating a small amount of processed meat is equivalent to smoking cigarettes.
Rather, it means
