Sizzling steak and juicy burgers are a staple in many people's diets. But research has shown that regularly eating red meat and

processed meats may increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, stroke and some cancers, especially colorectal cancer.

A well-known study from the Harvard School of Public Health looked at the health effects of regularly consuming meat and found links to

heart disease and cancer.A daily serving of unprocessed red meat -- about the size of a deck of cards --

was associated with a 13% increased risk of death from heart disease or cancer.A daily serving of processed red meat --

a hot dog or two slices of bacon -- was associated with a 20% increased risk of death from heart disease or cancer.

“Eating meat is fine but limit amounts and choose healthy types to reduce heart disease risk. Eating too much red meat carries

health risks and is not part of a healthy diet,” says cardiologist at The Scripps Clinic Carmel Valley, Stephen Hu, MD, says

"Red meat tends to be high in cholesterol, saturated fat, and sodium. It should be eaten in limited quantity.