New research presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference showed that frequently eating ultra-processed meats such as hot dogs, sausage, bacon, and salami may increase the risk of dementia. Using data collected over four decades, the findings haven’t been published in a peer-reviewed journal yet, but they gave professionals a peek at “one of the most robust studies” linking diet to cognitive decline, as Dr. Maria Carrillo, the chief science officer of the Alzheimer’s Association, tells NBC News. The study: The research tracked over 130,000 US adults for up to 43 years. Abo…