Bacon and sausages 'raise heart disease risk'

Eating processed meats like bacon, ham and sausages can increase the risk of heart disease and diabetes, according to new research.

Processed meats are already linked to a higher chance of developing bowel cancer but a round-up of worldwide research has shown a link with other conditions.

A review by the Harvard School of Public Health in the US found people who eat 50g of processed meats daily have a 42 per cent higher risk of heart disease and a 19 per cent increased risk of Type 2 diabetes.

A serving of 50g is roughly the equivalent of two rashers of bacon or one hot dog.

However, unprocessed red meats, such as beef, pork or lamb, do not raise the risk.