New Study Links High Chicken Consumption to Increased Mortality Risks

Recent research published in the journal Nutrients has raised alarms regarding the health implications of high chicken consumption. The study, conducted by Italian researchers from the National Institute of Gastroenterology, analyzed data from 4,869 adults over a 19-year period to assess the impact of poultry intake on overall mortality, particularly focusing on gastrointestinal cancers. The findings revealed that individuals consuming more than 300 grams of chicken per week faced a 27% higher risk of death from all causes compared to those consuming less than 100 grams weekly. Furthermore, the risk of dying from digestive cancers was more than doubled for those exceeding the same 300-gram threshold, particularly affecting men, who experienced a 2.6 times increased likelihood. Historically, chicken has been viewed as a healthier alternative to red meat, which the World Health Organization classified as 'probably carcinogenic' in 2015. Yet, this new study challenges that perception. Participants who reported high poultry intake were primarily men whose estrogen levels may affect their susceptibility to health risks related to meat consumption. The research also highlighted the potential role of cooking methods, implying that overcooking chicken might produce harmful genetic mutations through the creation of mutagens. The use of pesticides and hormones in industrial poultry farming could introduce additional risks, further complicating the narrative around poultry being a 'noble food.' While the authors acknowledged limitations—such as the lack of distinctions among poultry cuts and cooking methods—they suggested that moderation in poultry consumption is vital, advocating for a varied diet rich in other protein sources such as fish. Nutritionists, like Lauren Manaker, emphasize that chicken is still a valuable source of essential nutrients. However, they note that preparation methods significantly impact health outcomes, pointing out that fried chicken, for instance, could add unhealthy fats and calories. More balanced dietary patterns incorporating a variety of proteins, along with vegetables and whole grains, are recommended for long-term health. This study catalyzes important discussions about dietary habits and underlines the need for careful consideration of food choices among consumers, particularly concerning meat consumption habits. As public interest in healthy eating continues to grow, this research encourages a reevaluation of longstanding beliefs about the healthfulness of poultry while advocating for moderation across dietary patterns.