You are what you eat : The Pros and Cons of Red Meat

Nov 25, 2011
Sandra Markcrow

Remove the fat first - Free Images Live

Red meat is a rich source of nutrients for the body. The question is, how much do I eat and is it harmful? The Pros and Cons are discussed in this article.

Eating red meat 3 times a week contributes to a healthy diet. Red meat is high in protein and vitamins, iron, zinc and B vitamins. These nutrients provide the body’s energy needs. This article discusses the pros and cons of red meat and the latest scientific data about health benefits and health risks.

Apart from consisting of healthy nutrients the body needs each day, red meat can also be high in unwanted saturated fats. Saturated fats in the diet, raise unhealthy cholesterol levels in the body which can lead to heart disease and some forms of cancer. Scientific studies recommended choosing lean cuts of red meat or trimming off fat before cooking.

The healthy nutrients and benefits contained in red meat are as follows:

Protein

Proteins are important building blocks of muscle and tissue repair. A piece of red meat the size of your palm contains half the daily protein needs of an average adult. Protein in the body is needed to fuel daily physical activity. It is also an active ingredient in producing enzymes and hormones that help fight diseases. Eating lean red meat can be beneficial in weight loss. It makes you feel fuller for longer and satisfies hunger.

Iron

Iron is required by our red blood cells. It is important in carrying oxygen around the body. Eating red meat 3 times a week supplies the body with its recommended iron requirements.

Zinc

Zinc helps build muscle mass, promotes healthy brain function and also is important in building a healthy immune system. Eating a palm sized piece of red meat 3 times a week provides the body with its recommended zinc requirements.

B Vitamins

B vitamins help to build a healthy body. Red meat is a natural source of these vitamins. Vitamin B12 helps to build a healthy nervous system. Vitamin B6 builds a healthy immune system. Niacin, aids in healthy digestion and riboflavin for healthy skin and eyes.

Oleic Acid

Lean red meat contains oleic acid. This is the same acid found in olive oil. It is a healthy cholesterol and helps to lower bad cholesterol in the body.

Some red meats are high in saturated fats which are detrimental to the body’s health. High bad cholesterol levels in the body have been associated with heart disease and colorectal cancer. Consuming saturated fat raises bad blood cholesterol which causes fatty deposits on the walls of arteries to form. These deposits harden into plaques and eventually occlude the flow of blood. This leads to heart attack and strokes.

Research is still being conducted as to whether red meat causes colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer has been linked to the consumption of processed meats and small goods such as salami, pepperoni, mettwurst, bacon and ham. We will have to wait for more scientific research to prove whether red meat is linked to some forms of cancer.

In conclusion, red meat consumption is a healthy choice if eaten in moderation. Eating red meat two to three times a week will help satisfy your body’s nutrient requirements. Always choose lean cuts of red meat or trim the fat off the meat yourself before cooking. Most butchers and supermarket chains already remove the fat from the meat for you, which makes eating healthy easier. Red meat is a nutrient rich food source which you should include in your weekly diet.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact their physician for advice.