Including Red Meat in High-Quality Diets May Enhance Mental Well-Being, Study Suggests

Recent research from South Dakota State University challenges traditional views on red meat consumption, highlighting its potential benefits within high-quality diets. Historically linked to cardiovascular risks, red meat now appears to contribute positively to mental health and gut microbial diversity when included as part of a balanced diet. The study analyzed data from the largest open-source microbiome project, the American Gut Project, involving 4,915 adults. Participants were categorized based on their dietary quality and red meat intake, scored via the USDA's Healthy Eating Index. Findings revealed that individuals following a high-quality diet maintained healthy weight regardless of red meat consumption. More notably, those consuming red meat within such diets showed improved intake of nutrients vital for brain health—such as zinc, selenium, vitamin B12, and choline. Higher diet scores were associated with lower risks of depression, PTSD, and bipolar disorder, alongside enhanced gut microbial diversity linked to red meat intake. The study emphasizes a flexible approach to healthy eating, advocating for overall dietary patterns over strict food elimination. Presented at the Nutrition 2025 conference, the research underscores that incorporating lean red meat can support comprehensive nutritional adequacy without adverse effects, encouraging a balanced perspective on diet and mental health. Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-red-meat-consumption-high-quality.html