A new Canadian study has found that eating meat may not increase the risk of death from cancer and could even offer protective benefits. Researchers analyzed data from nearly 16,000 adults and found no increased risk of death associated with higher intake of animal protein. In fact, they discovered a modest but significant reduction in cancer-related mortality among those who ate more animal protein.
The study, published in Applied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism, used advanced statistical methods to estimate long-term dietary intake and minimize measurement error. The researchers also found that plant protein had minimal impact on cancer mortality, while animal protein may offer a small protective effect.
The findings contradict previous advice from the Canadian Cancer Society and other studies, which recommend limiting red meat consumption due to its potential link to cancer. However, this study suggests that eating animal protein as part of a balanced diet could be beneficial for health.
Lead researcher Yanni Papanikolaou emphasized that both animal and plant protein foods promote health and longevity when considered together. The study focused on animal protein, not specifically red meat, and its results are in line with clinical research that supports the importance of both types of protein in a healthy diet.
Source: https://nationalpost.com/news/canada/eating-meat-may-protect-against-cancer-related-death-according-to-mcmaster-university-study