How much meat is too much?
The debate regarding the benefits and risks of red meat consumption has been going on for years, and it seems like we still see mixed results.
Many researchers claim that eating red meat provides important nutrients, which include vitamin B-12, protein, and iron, which is important for muscle and brain health. However, there is also evidence that shows eating too much of it can raise the risk of cancers, heart disease, and other health-related problems.
Red meat can be classified as the muscle meat from pork, beef, lamb, goat, and other land mammals. It is a great source for protein, which is an important nutrient necessary to build muscle mass, bone, and other tissues and enzymes in the body. It also helps to produce new red blood cells. But do these benefits outweigh the rise of heart disease, kidney problems, digestive issues, and even death?
Well, for all of you meat-lovers out there (including myself), we should be happy to know that it isn’t necessary to cut out the delicious pieces of animal tissue from our diets to live a long healthy life. Just like with any other awesome things in life, it is important to know what we are eating and to be able to control ourselves from over-indulging.
Studies have shown that leaner cuts of red meat which have not been processed, such as pork tenderloins or sirloin steaks, are more healthy than other types of meats we usually love to eat. These “unhealthy” options include processed meats, such as bacon, hot dogs, bologna, sausages, etc. So how do you stay healthy and still enjoy the once-in-a-while BBQs? Next time, grill or smoke up a nice lean piece of red meat instead of hot dogs. Remember, even the leanest of meats can be slow-cooked to be tender and melt-in-your-mouth.
