Research conducted in Australia found that women who ate less than 3.5 ounces of red meat three to five times a week were twice as likely to be diagnosed with depression or anxiety.
Other forms of protein such as chicken pork, fish or plant-based proteins did not have the same effect.
Researchers say eating more than the recommended amount of red meat also increased depression and anxiety.
Results of the study are published in in the journal Psychotherapy Psychosomatics.
