Health experts have warned us about the dangers of eating red meat. This article looks at whether the much feared red meat actually is that dangerous. We also reveal the benefits of eating it. Read on to learn more about the link between red meat and health.
Red Meat and Heart Disease
Traditionally, it has been believed that eating red meat raises the risk of cancer and heart disease. There is indeed a link between red meats that contain saturated fat and heart disease. This is because saturated fat increases blood cholesterol which raises the risk of heart ailments.
Red Meat and Cancer
Many researchers aver that red meat raises the risk of colorectal cancer. Research reveals that people who regularly consume large amounts of red meat face increased risk of getting cancer. However, the meat industry says lean red meats are good for the heart. In 2007, the American Institute for Cancer Research declared that processed and red meats can cause certain types of cancers. While the link between red meat and colorectal cancer has been proved conclusively, suggestive links exist between red meat and endometrial, pancreatic, stomach, esophageal and lung cancers.
Why Red Meat Causes Cancer
- The saturated fat in red meat can cause breast and colon cancers.
- When this meat is being cooked, carcinogens may form.
- Red meat also contains a type of iron called heme iron, which produces compounds that could damage cells and cause cancer.
Health Benefits of Red Meat
- It is rich in iron, which is often lacking in teenage and adult women.
- Heme iron can be easily absorbed.
- Red meat contains vitamin B12 which produces DNA and maintains the health of red blood cells and nerves.
- It is also rich in zinc, which helps to boost immunity.
- Red meat contains protein, which builds muscles and bones.
- In fact, nutrition experts say just three ounces of lean beef can provide 10 important nutrients.
Tips on Consuming Red Meat
Most nutritionists say one should eat lean red meat in sensible portions. Ensure that red meat does not crowd out whole grains, vegetables and fruits from your diet. If you are a big fan of red meat, you do not have to sacrifice it for health. Just select your meats wisely and eat moderate portions. Nutritionists advise to limit consumption of red meat to less than 18 ounces a week. Avoid processed meats like sausages, hot dogs, bacon, ham and deli meats as they increase colon cancer risk.
The Best Red Meats
- The leanest and best red meats are lamb loin chops, pork tenderloin, top sirloin and sirloin tip steak.
- The best beef includes arm roasts, flank steak, filet mignon, chuck shoulder steak, and round roasts and steaks.
- Lean pork cuts are bone-in rib chops, loin chops and loin roasts.
Dangers of Grilling
Health experts say cooking meats like fish, poultry and red meat at high temperatures can generate certain compounds that raise cancer risk. To reduce the dangers of grilling, cook at medium heat and not high heat. Limit broiling, frying and overcooking. You can also partially cook fish and meats in a microwave or oven before using the grill.
Summary
Now that you know the link between red meat and health, we hope you will take wise decisions while including meats in your diet to maximize their benefits and reduce the grave risks. Here’s to happy munching.
Related posts:
- Physical Activity May Reduce The Risk Of Cancer
- Salmonella Germs Found In Chicken Meat
- Top 10 Best Foods You Might Not Eat
- Diet for Health
- Western Diet Pattern Is Linked To Colorectal Cancer
- Almond Health Benefits
- Health Benefits of Drinking a Glass of Red Wine Everyday
- Peanut Health Benefits
- Apricots Health Benefits
- Food for Thought : The best food for your brain !!!
