For decades, chicken has been the go-to choice for anyone looking to eat healthier and avoid the risks associated with red meat. But what if everything you knew about chicken being a "better" protein source is wrong?

Recent findings from a groundbreaking study published in Nutrients journal suggest that eating more than 300 grams of chicken per week (that’s about three servings) could actually increase your risk of early death by a shocking 27%. Yes, you read that right. And the most concerning part? The study links this increased risk to gastric cancers, which are notoriously difficult to detect early.

This might sound crazy, especially considering that chicken has long been considered the healthier alternative to red meat, but the reality is starting to look a lot darker. With chicken consumption rising globally, could our once beloved poultry be a ticking time bomb for our health?

The Startling Truth Behind Poultry's Risk
The study tracked over 4,000 participants for an impressive 19 years, diving deep into their eating habits and health histories. What they found will make you rethink your next chicken dinner. It turns out that eating chicken — especially more than 300 grams weekly — was linked to a significantly higher risk of dying from gastrointestinal cancers compared to people who consumed smaller amounts.

For men, the risk of early death from gastric cancer was more than double for those eating high quantities of poultry each week. But it wasn’t just a small blip; the more chicken people ate, the more their risk increased. And here's the twist: even though red meat has gotten a bad rap over the years, this new study shows that chicken consumption is showing comparable, if not worse, health consequences.

Why This Study Matters
As if this wasn’t enough to shake you, the researchers also noted that this new information could reshape global dietary guidelines. Right now, the standard recommendation is to consume no more than 100 grams of poultry per week. But for those eating more than three servings per week, the risks could outweigh the benefits.

However, the research isn't perfect. It didn’t distinguish between processed chicken (think fast food) and home-cooked, grilled poultry. Also, there’s no data on participants' activity levels, which could certainly influence the health outcomes. Still, it raises some serious red flags for anyone who regularly eats chicken as part of their meal plan.

Are We Eating Too Much Chicken?
You might be wondering, "Is it really that bad?" While the study doesn't say we should cut chicken entirely, it does urge caution, particularly for those who already eat chicken frequently. Even modest amounts of the bird could elevate the risk of gastric cancer, so it’s important to think twice before making chicken your main protein source.

For now, it’s a good idea to reconsider that third serving of chicken in your weekly diet. If you're looking for healthy protein options, perhaps look beyond poultry and explore alternatives like fish, beans, or plant-based options that may offer the same benefits without the risks.

As always, balance is key — and perhaps it’s time to make room for a little less chicken on your plate and a little more variety.

The Bottom Line: Rethink Your Diet
So, what can we learn from this new study? First and foremost: the health risks of eating too much chicken are more serious than we thought. While it’s not time to panic, it’s a wake-up call to rethink our food choices. Let’s not allow the convenience of chicken to cloud our judgment when it comes to long-term health.

The next time you plan your meals, maybe try swapping in something else for that third serving of chicken. Your future self might thank you.