Expert

Can Eating 300 Grams of Chicken Shorten Lifespan? Here Is What An Expert Has To Say!

Eating more than 300g of chicken weekly could double your risk of dying from gastrointestinal cancer, says a new study. See what an expert says about balancing poultry in your diet.

  • SHARE
  • FOLLOW
Can Eating 300 Grams of Chicken Shorten Lifespan? Here Is What An Expert Has To Say!


Eating chicken and other white meats has long been considered a healthier choice compared to red meat. However, a recent study has raised some important questions about how much chicken is truly safe to eat. The new research found that eating more than 300 grams, that is about four servings of poultry per week, may increase the risk of death, especially from gastrointestinal cancers. This has surprised many, as chicken is often seen as a go-to protein for a healthy diet. So, should you cut back on your chicken intake? Read ahead to explore what the study found and what experts say about these new findings.

What the Study Found2 - 2025-04-25T094100.326

The study published on Nutrients followed nearly 5,000 adults in southern Italy over 19 years. Researchers tracked their diets, focusing on how much red and white meat they ate, and recorded causes of death. The key finding was that people who ate more than 300 grams of poultry weekly had a 27% higher risk of dying from any cause compared to those who ate less than 100 grams.

More surprisingly, men who ate over 300 grams of poultry per week were more than twice as likely to die from gastrointestinal cancers than men who ate less. The risk increased as poultry consumption rose. This was unexpected because white meat, especially chicken, has been considered a safer alternative to red meat.

ALSO READ: ‘The Last of Us’ star Bella Ramsey Says Being Tired Amplified Her Autistic Traits While Shooting: “I Was Going To Go Insane”

What Could Be Behind the Risk?1 - 2025-04-25T094058.714

Experts say the study shows a link, but it doesn’t prove that chicken causes cancer or early death. However, according to Sakshi Singh, Nutritionist, Dietetic Place, Lucknow, there are several possible reasons for the connection:

  • Cooking methods: Grilling, frying, or barbecuing chicken at high heat can create harmful chemicals linked to cancer risk.
  • Processed chicken: Some chicken products contain preservatives, salt, and fats that may harm health.
  • Other lifestyle factors: The study didn’t fully account for physical activity, alcohol use, or other dietary habits, which also affect health.
  • Gender differences: Men showed a higher risk, possibly due to differences in hormones or lifestyle.

This study found an association, not a direct cause. It’s important not to panic but to be thoughtful about how much poultry you eat and how it’s prepared.

Should You Stop Eating Chicken?3 (88)

No, experts like Sakshi don’t recommend giving up chicken completely. Chicken is a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Instead, moderation and preparation matter. Our expert shared a few tips that can be helpful:

  • Limit poultry to about 2-3 servings per week (100-150 grams per serving).
  • Avoid charring or burning chicken when cooking.
  • Choose fresh, unprocessed chicken over processed products.
  • Balance your diet with plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and healthy fats.
  • Stay active and maintain a healthy lifestyle overall.

What This Means for Your Diet

This study reminds us that no food is perfect, and even healthy choices can have risks if eaten in excess. It’s important to look at your whole diet and lifestyle. The Mediterranean diet, which includes moderate amounts of meat along with lots of plant foods, remains a good model for health.

ALSO READ: Lizzo Shares Mindful Strategies to Manage Anxiety Amid Weight Loss Journey: Here Is What She Followed For Transformation

Conclusion

The new study adds to our understanding of how meat consumption affects health. While chicken is often seen as a healthy protein, eating large amounts regularly may increase certain health risks. Moderation, variety, and healthy cooking are key. By making smart choices, you can enjoy your meals and protect your health at the same time.

FAQ

  • Is 300 grams of chicken too much?

    The portion depends on individual needs of an individual. Whether 300 grams of chicken is too much depends on dietary goals. However, It is generally considered a healthy and reasonable amount of protein for a meal or a part of a balanced daily diet. They are advised to consider overall calorie intake and individual protein requirements. 
  • How much chicken is safe to eat per day?

    A healthy approach is to consume around 3-4 ounces i.e. 85-113 grams of chicken per serving, which is roughly the size of a deck of cards. 
  • Can I eat chicken 3 times a day?

    No, eating too much chicken can lead to higher cholesterol levels. Too much consumption might also lead to cardiovascular disease.

 

 

 

Read Next

Ragi Can Be Used to Make Tea Too: Here's How It Benefits Your Health

Disclaimer