Mia's Feed
Nutrition & Diet

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

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

Share this article

A new study finds that including red meat in high-quality diets may boost mental health and gut microbial diversity, challenging traditional dietary restrictions and emphasizing a balanced approach.

1 min read

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

Stay Updated with Mia's Feed

Get the latest health & wellness insights delivered straight to your inbox.

How often would you like updates?

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

Related Articles

Omega-3 Fatty Acid-Rich Diet Could Reduce Childhood Myopia Risk

A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids from fish oils may help reduce the risk of myopia in children, according to recent research. Higher omega-3 intake is associated with shorter eye axial length and less nearsightedness, offering a potential dietary strategy to combat rising myopia rates worldwide.

Emerging Research Links Food Additives to Potential Gut Health Risks

New studies suggest that food additives in processed foods may harm gut health by disrupting microbiome balance and increasing inflammation. Focus on reducing additive consumption for better gastrointestinal well-being.

Kenyan Study Shows Front-of-Pack Warning Labels Effectively Promote Healthy Food Choices

A recent Kenyan study reveals that front-of-pack warning labels significantly help consumers identify and avoid unhealthy foods, promoting better dietary choices and public health.