When it comes to nutrition, attitudes about fresh meat are constantly shifting. After all, the push for plant-based diets is greater than it has ever been before; however, many people are claiming that there just isn’t anything out there to replace the benefits that come from meat consumption. Of course, when we talk about meat being healthy, we mean meat that is unprocessed, as it’s these quality cuts that provide all the nutrients a human needs for maintaining good health.
Fresh meat is central to a number of religions and cultures. For instance, Qurbani in the UK and around the world places great importance on the idea of fresh meat. To that end, detailed below is a more in-depth look into the world of fresh meat consumption and how this can be particularly beneficial to your health.
Nutrient-Dense Powerhouse
If you’re looking to consume protein, then very few foods will deliver this to the same extent that meat does. As a result, fresh meat is essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body maintenance. Unfortunately, with plant-based proteins, you’re unable to get all nine essential amino acids; however, these are promised with fresh meat. Therefore, athletes, bodybuilders, the elderly, and children should generally all consume fresh meat, as they require a higher protein intake that would be tricky to achieve without meat.
Rich in Essential Vitamins and Minerals
Fresh meat is full of vitamins and minerals that are required for various bodily functions. For instance, some of the key nutrients in meat include the following:
- Vitamin B12 – This is crucial for brain health, nerve function, and red blood cell production. It’s found naturally in animal products, and this means that it’s not present in plant foods.
- Iron – Red meat, in particular, is rich in heme iron, which the body can absorb with ease when compared to non-heme iron that’s found in plant-based food. With an adequate iron intake, you can work to prevent anemia and bolster energy levels.
- Zinc – When it comes to immune function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis, the power of zinc from animal sources is unmatched.
- Vitamin D – Fatty fish and other fresh meats are good sources of Vitamin D; this is vital for your bone health and immune function.
- Creatine and carnosine – These are the compounds that are found in meat and are beneficial for muscle function and brain health.
Supports Muscle Growth and Maintenance7
Fresh meat contains some of the highest-quality protein, which is why it’s such a big supporter of muscle growth and maintenance. This is of particular importance for individuals who exercise regularly. Especially because the protein from the meat works to repair muscle tissues after exercise, resulting in improved muscle hypertrophy. What’s more, the amino acids in meat can prevent muscle wasting, which older adults require more so than anyone to maintain strength and mobility.
Promotes Heart Health
It’s a common misconception that fresh meat is bad for your heart health – this, instead, refers to processed meat. Fresh meat, quite literally, has the opposite effect, as it can actually support heart health. This is especially true of lean meats like chicken and turkey, as these are low in saturated fats and high in heart-healthy nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids. Grass-fed and wild-caught varieties are particularly abundant in these beneficial nutrients, and healthy fats can also work to reduce inflammation and improve cholesterol levels. From this, you can also reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Those detailed above are just some of the many benefits of eating fresh meat – all in all, it’s safe to say that it’s part of a well-rounded diet.
