Fact checked by Nick Blackmer People who eat greater amounts of processed red meat—such as bacon and hot dogs—are at a higher risk of dementia, new research found.These red meat products often contain harmful substances like nitrates and sodium and have low nutritional value.

Processed red meats—like bacon, deli meats, and hot dogs—are linked to a host of health ills. Now, the latest study finds that eating too much red meat may even harm the brain. In a study published in the journal Neurology,

A large new study is among the first to suggest a link between cured meats and higher rates of dementia and worse cognition.

We asked nutrition experts how consumers can make informed and healthy choices about eating red meat.

Consuming just two servings of processed red meat per week is associated with a 13% increased risk for dementia, a large, long-term study shows.

Eating too much red meat has been associated with poor health outcomes, but a new study shows it could also put your future cognitive health at risk.

Several studies have suggested that a diet rich in sugar and saturated fat can contribute to inflammation, potentially damaging brain cells and raising dementia risk.

Eating plenty of plants—fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds and legumes—will also provide brain-loving antioxidants and other nutrients. Berries are a rich source of these antioxidants, so try to include some in your meals and snacks most days.

A groundbreaking study reveals that high consumption of processed red meat significantly increases the risk of dementia. Researchers suggest replacing red meat with healthier protein sources like nuts and legumes to potentially reduce this risk by 20%.

Reduce your risk of dementia by making simple dietary changes. Learn about the connection between processed red meat and accelerated brain aging.

"Our study results forecast a dramatic rise in the burden from dementia in the United States over the coming decades, with one in two Americans expected to experience cognitive difficulties after age 55," senior investigator Dr. Josef Coresh, founding director of the Optimal Aging Institute at NYU Langone Health, said in a news release.

A study of over 133,000 individuals found that consuming processed red meat daily increases dementia risk by up to 13%, while replacing it with alternatives like nuts, legumes, or fish may lower the risk by 20%.