A recent Harvard study links red meat consumption to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. The research findings provide a powerful statement about the dangers of red meat.

We have known from previous studies that processed red meat is closely linked to type 2 diabetes. Examples of processed red meat include ham, bacon, hot dogs, pepperoni and sausages.

Until now, however, studies have not come to an agreement as to “whether unprocessed red meat—a steak, for example—was associated with an increased diabetes risk.”

The Harvard study answers this question. It shows that the development of type 2 diabetes is linked to not only to the consumption of processed red meat but also to the consumption of unprocessed red meat.

So how strong is the association of red meat to type 2 diabetes?

The researchers found eating a daily serving of just 50 grams of processed meat—the equivalent of one hot dog or sausage or two slices of bacon—was associated with a 51% increased risk” of type 2 diabetes. That is a huge increased risk!

The researchers also found that eating a daily serving of 100-gram of unprocessed red meat—about the size of a deck of cards—was associated with a 19% increased risk of type 2 diabetes.” So, unprocessed red meat is also strongly implicated in causing type 2 diabetes.

The Harvard study did have some good news. Its results suggested that replacing red meat with healthier proteins, such as low-fat dairy, nuts, or whole grains, can significantly lower the type 2 diabetes risk.