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New Study Finds Minimal Difference Between Red Meat and Chicken for Blood Sugar and Diabetes Risk
Research suggests lean, unprocessed beef may not have the negative impact previously thought, especially for those with pre-diabetes.
Published on Feb. 24, 2026
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A recent study conducted by researchers at Indiana University and the Illinois Institute of Technology found no significant differences in blood glucose levels, insulin response, pancreatic function, and beta cell performance between adults with pre-diabetes who consumed either lean beef or unprocessed chicken daily for a month-long period. The authors emphasized the need for longer-term research with a more balanced sample to confirm these short-term findings.
Why it matters
For years, red meat has been considered a potential risk factor for increased blood sugar and the development of diabetes, while chicken has often been presented as the healthier alternative. This study challenges that conventional wisdom, suggesting the differences may not be as significant as previously thought, at least in the short term for individuals with pre-diabetes.
The details
The study involved 24 adults with pre-diabetes, approximately 70% of whom were male. Participants consumed either lean beef or unprocessed chicken daily for four weeks, then switched to the other protein source for a similar period. Meals included burgers, grilled steak strips, chicken burritos, stews, and stir-fries, integrated into their usual diets. Researchers assessed blood glucose levels, insulin response, pancreatic function, and the performance of pancreatic beta cells after each month-long phase.
- The study was conducted over an 8-week period, with participants consuming either lean beef or unprocessed chicken for 4 weeks, then switching to the other protein source for another 4 weeks.
The players
School of Public Health at Indiana University in Bloomington
The institution where the study was conducted.
Institute of Technology of Illinois
The institution where the study was conducted.
Kevin Maki
The lead researcher from the Illinois Institute of Technology.
Mia Kazanjian
A radiologist who commented on the study's findings.
What they’re saying
“If beef consumption were to worsen beta cell function, that would provide evidence suggesting it could be causing an increased risk of diabetes. However, we found no evidence of that in our study.”
— Kevin Maki, Lead Researcher (Fox News Digital)
“For someone with pre-diabetes, the takeaway is that eating beef as part of a healthy diet didn't worsen diabetes risk factors in the short term, but we still need long-term data before making general recommendations.”
— Mia Kazanjian, Radiologist (Fox News)
What’s next
The authors emphasized that this was a short-term study, and longer-term research with a more balanced sample of men and women is needed to confirm these findings and potentially update dietary recommendations.
The takeaway
While this study suggests that lean, unprocessed beef may not have the negative impact on blood sugar and diabetes risk previously thought, especially for those with pre-diabetes, a balanced dietary approach remains crucial. Prioritizing whole, unprocessed foods, including lean proteins, is key for managing blood sugar and overall health.
