Increasing Fruit Intake and Reducing Processed Meat Consumption Could Cut Disease Rates in the Netherlands by 2050

Research from Wageningen University & Research suggests that if the citizens of the Netherlands were to increase their fruit consumption to two servings per day and eliminate processed meats from their diets, the country could see a significant reduction in new cases of diabetes, coronary heart disease, and strokes by the year 2050.

According to the study published in eClinicalMedicine, adhering to dietary guidelines could lead to a projected 20% decrease in these chronic diseases. Currently, Dutch dietary habits fall short of recommendations, with individuals consuming only half the advised amount of fruits and approximately 40 grams of processed meat daily.

The researchers identified two dietary changes as particularly impactful: increasing fruit intake and eliminating processed meat. The findings indicate that avoiding processed meats could prevent 22% of new type 2 diabetes cases and 21% of coronary heart disease instances by 2050. Moreover, if everyone were to consume the recommended two pieces of fruit each day, strokes in the Netherlands could be reduced by over 18%. This is particularly significant given that more than one million people in the Netherlands currently live with type 2 diabetes.

To assess future health outcomes, the research team utilized existing data and food consumption surveys from the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM). They found that while many Dutch citizens still fall short on consuming adequate fruits and vegetables, their intake of sugary beverages and processed meats remains concerningly high.

Combining knowledge from previous studies with current dietary patterns allowed the researchers to model potential disease reductions should the population commit to recommended dietary guidelines. They emphasized that while the numbers may seem modest, the effect on public health could be substantial.

Encouraging adherence to these dietary guidelines could not only improve individual health outcomes but also alleviate the burden on the healthcare system and reduce associated medical costs. However, the researchers acknowledged that changing eating habits is complex. The prevalence and marketing of unhealthy, processed foods pose significant barriers to healthier dietary choices.

To facilitate healthier eating, policy measures could be instituted, such as lowering taxes on nutritious foods while increasing taxes on less healthy options like processed meats. The study also highlighted the benefits of other food categories, noting that adequate nut and seed consumption could reduce the risk of coronary heart disease and diabetes, while increased whole grain intake could prevent up to 10% of stroke cases. Eliminating processed meat could also contribute to a modest reduction in bowel cancer and stroke incidence.

This research underscores the importance of dietary choices in shaping future public health outcomes in the Netherlands.