The Doctor's Kitchen Podcast #304 Is Red Meat Actually That Unhealthy? with Dr Kevin Maki PhD
Jul 2, 2025
Dr. Kevin Maki, a nutrition researcher and adjunct professor, dives deep into the controversies surrounding red meat. He tackles whether red meat is indeed unhealthier than poultry and clarifies its effects on cholesterol. The discussion reveals that moderation is key, challenging common misconceptions. Maki also explores the importance of dietary fats, omega-3s, and the complexity of dietary protein sources, advocating for a balanced approach to nutrition instead of demonizing specific foods.
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Complexity Behind Red Meat Risks
- Observational studies linking red meat to poor health often miss hidden factors like smoking and inactivity.
- Red meat intake doesn't worsen cholesterol compared to poultry, showing complexities in diet-health relationships.
Red Meat and Diabetes Risk
- Red meat shows a consistent association with increased diabetes risk in observational studies.
- Intervention trials find no worsening of diabetes risk factors when comparing red meat to poultry consumption.
Moderate Red Meat Intake
- Consume unprocessed red meat in moderation, about three 3.5-ounce servings weekly.
- Excessive intake isn't necessary; maintain balance with other healthy dietary components.
