Eating Red Meat – Good or Bad?
Eating Red Meat – Good or Bad?
I often get asked by my clients (even the non-vegan ones) if eating Red Meat – is Good or Bad? It is true to say that online messages are very confusing and misleading to the point where we all try to reduce red meat consumption. In fact, there are enough impartial reviews of evidence that prove differently.
Don’t get me wrong; if you believe you should not eat red meat for religious purposes, I completely honor your decision. However, red meat has nutritional benefits and is an extremely healthy option choice – which is the topic of today’s blog.
The Nutrients Red Meat Provide
B Vitamins
Red meat is an excellent source of all B vitamins, specifically B12. B12 is an essential nutrient that supports nerve system, brain cells, reduces free radical damage. B12 also contributes to healthy DNA and RNA, supports the immune system, mood heart and energy production.
Fatigue, digestive issues, nausea and loss of menstruation that can lead to infertility issues are some of the symptoms we may experience with B12 deficiencies.
An easy way to close the gap is by eating organic, grass-fed red meat once or twice a week.
Vitamin D
Yes, meat is a great source of Vitamin D – A bit surprising right? Meat consumption can increase Vitamin D levels significantly, along with exposure to the sun.
Why do we need Vitamin D?
*Vitamin D promotes calcium absorption in the gut
*Calcium transfer across cell membranes
*Supports our immune system by activating our T-cells
*Contributes to strong bones and controls the levels of calcium in the blood (If there is not enough calcium in the diet, then it will be drawn from the bone).
*Low CA produce calcification of the soft tissues
*High levels of Vitamin D (from the diet or sunlight) will actually demineralize bone if sufficient calcium is not present
*Contented nervous system
*Vitamin D aids in the absorption of magnesium, iron and zinc, as well as calcium
Zinc, Iron & Other Minerals
Zinc, Iron & other Minerals like Magnesium, Copper, Selenium, Phosphorus are additional nutrients that red meat will provide to keep us balanced and healthy. Deficiency of any of these mentioned nutrients will suppress our immune system, lower red blood cells production, brain and liver function might be compromised as well. These nutrients are essential to our day by day function as well as cells structure, proteins and enzymes production and regulation of gene expression.
Digestion of Red Meat
Red meat is a protein. In order to digest better proteins, we need to produce enough Hydrochloric Acid (HCL) that is produced in the stomach and Protease enzymes which support peptides production. To support this natural way of digestion proteins, we need to increase eating green leaves vegetables along with red meat.
Adding a big salad with your flank steak drizzle it with olive oil, lemon or balsamic vinaigrette will do the trick of improving proteins digestion dramatically.
Grass-fed Meat Is The Best Way To Go
In my mind, there is no question. Grass-fed red meat is the best option you can take to support your health. However, I would like to emphasize the difference between grain-fed vs grass-fed meat. I am highly recommending the grass-fed option. Pasture-raised animals are far healthier not just for us but also for the environment (reduction on carbon, use of water, pollutants, antibiotics and pesticides). Grass-fed meat contains higher levels of nutrients like Zinc, Iron, Vitamin B12, rich in antioxidants, minerals and other nutrients.
We are what we eat after all – would you agree? So just remember, grass-fed meat with a big bowl of green salad or green vegetables will make a big difference in your health.
MEET CHEN BEN ASHER
Chen is a Functional Nutrition expert consultant, leading authority on weight management, women’s health and gluten sensitivity. She is a clinician, public speaker, educator and Amazon Best Seller author of “What If Gluten Free Is Not Enough – The Balanced Diet”.
Chen uses Functional Nutrition to help you find answers to the root causes of your illness and address the biochemical imbalances that may trigger your health and weight. She uses cutting edge lab testing and design the nutritional program to your specific needs as an individual. Food, supplements, lifestyle changes will have integrated to bring balance
If you are looking for a personalized nutritional support, we highly recommended contacting Mor’s Nutrition & More Wellness Center in Cupertino, California today.
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