Red meat increases stroke risk in older adults

Elderly people should reduce their consumption of red meat, as it clogs the arteries. Especially after the age of 55, red meat causes more harm than benefit.

1news.media reports, citing Medicina.az, neurologist Alexandra Alekina stated that red meat also increases the risk of stroke.

She explained that a stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted. In ischemic stroke, this happens due to blood clotting and vessel blockage, while in hemorrhagic stroke, a weakened blood vessel in the brain ruptures. What you eat can directly affect your risk of stroke — especially for older adults, who are advised to avoid red meat.

“Consumption of red meat and sausages, which are rich in saturated fats, increases the risk of stroke. Elderly people who eat red meat are more likely to suffer an ischemic stroke, as saturated fats block the arteries that supply blood to the brain. These clots usually form where arteries have narrowed or are partially blocked by fat,” Alekina emphasized.

She added that lean meats, poultry (such as chicken or turkey), fish, tofu, beans, and legumes are the healthiest protein sources and help reduce stroke risk.

A study also found that people who ate mostly chicken or turkey daily had a 13% lower risk of stroke compared to those who consumed one serving of red meat per day.