Red meat and dietary iron intakes are associated with some components of metabolic syndrome: Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study

Abstract

Abstract Background This study was conducted to investigate whether the daily consumption of haem, non-haem, total iron and red meat can affect the occurrence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its components. Methods Eligible adults (n = 4654) were selected from among participants of the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study with an average follow-up of 3.8 years. Dietary intakes were assessed using a valid and reliable semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Anthropometrics and biochemical variables were evaluated at baseline and follow-up examinations. The occurrence of MetS and its components were assessed in relation to haem, non-haem, total iron and red meat intakes. Results There was no relationship between different types of dietary iron and red meat intakes and the incidence of MetS in the Tehranian population. Risk of hypertension decreased from quartiles 1 to 4 for haem iron (HR: 1.00, 0.92, 0.81, 0.80, Ptrend < 0.01) and red meat intake (HR: 1.00, 0.89, 0.84, 0.77, Ptrend < 0.01). The association between hyperglycemia and the fourth quartile of total iron intake was significant (HR = 1.98, 95% CI 1.08–3.63); and the risk of high triglyceride appeared to increase in higher quartiles of total iron intake (HR: 1.00, 1.17, 1.49, 1.75, Ptrend = 0.01) compared to lower quartiles. Conclusion Our study suggests a potentially protective relationship of haem and moderate red meat intake against development of high blood pressure; and higher intake of total iron is related to hyperglycemia and high triglyceride.

Keywords

• Red meat
• Dietary iron intake
• Metabolic syndrome