People who eat large quantities of red and processed meat likely to die sooner, particularly from heart disease or cancer, than those who eat much smaller amounts, according to a new study.  I think many of us have long suspected that red meat heavy diets are unhealthy, but the decade long study provides stark evidence that even eating a little less can extend your life, and as I’ve mentioned before, help protect the planet.  We’re talking about people who eat 4 ounces of red meat, and one and a half ounces of processed meat every day.  Every day?!  That sounds like a lot to me, although 4 oz is about the size of a deck of cards.  I suppose a deck of cards is an apt comparison though, considering that you’re gambling with your health when you eat that much meat.

So, if you are eating large quanities of red and processed meat, do your body a favor and take a few days off.  Even if you don’t eat that much meat, try picking one day (or three) a week when you don’t eat meat at all.  You’ll feel healthier and you’ll help curb environmental pollution, climate change and protect water resources.  Pretty soon, you won’t even be asking “Where’s the beef?”