Heart Healthy Beef

Consumer demand for beef is at an all-time high. That’s partly because recent studies indicate that beef is an essential part of a healthy diet. But wait! What about all those so-called studies that surfaced about 20 years ago suggesting that beef could somehow be related to heart disease or even cancer?

Well, it turns out that beef was simply getting a bad rap. Those scientific studies were not substantiated by the facts. New data shows that the rumors that were circulated about beef 20 years ago are not what they are cracked up to be. In fact, a 2017 meta-analysis by Texas A&M University reviewed 40 significant cancer studies, most dealing with a supposed link between red meat and colorectal cancer.

The researchers found “limitations in the existing literature and concluded that there “is currently insufficient evidence to confirm a mechanistic link between the intake of red meat as part of a healthy dietary pattern and colorectal cancer risk.” Because these studies were the supposed strongest evidence between red meat consumption and cancer, this Texas A&M review shakes the foundations of what scientists for decades had wanted us to believe. You might be surprised to learn that to date, there has not been a single clinical trial conducted that establishes a direct link between beef consumption and cancer or heart disease. Numerous recent studies are reaching a different conclusion. Indeed, more recent studies are providing compelling evidence of the health benefits of consuming beef. And, it is worth noting, none of these studies were funded by the beef industry.

Well, you might ask, “what about cholesterol? 20 years ago, they were saying that red meat could increase your cholesterol? Well, research is now proving that to also be wrong. Contrary to what your parents may have heard decades ago, the dietary cholesterol you consume from food is not the primary cause of heart disease. Recent studies have shown that the main factor that predicts heart disease is a diet that elevates blood sugar levels, as they lead to increased insulin in the body. This puts a strain on the heart and arterial walls. While it is always important to listen to your doctor’s guidance, current research indicates, dietary cholesterol is not as concerning as it was previously believed to be.

In fact, scientists are now saying that including beef in your diet could help reduce blood cholesterol. Recent research conducted at Quebec’s Laval University found that those who eat beef protein actually have lower levels of LDL cholesterol than those who don’t include beef in their diet. And research continues to stack up supporting the health benefits of consuming beef. What research has shown is that beef is a great healthy choice! In fact, beef produced without the use of added hormones and antibiotics is one of the healthiest sources of protein available.

Recent studies published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition demonstrate that eating lean beef as part of a balanced diet supports healthy blood pressure and blood lipids. And additional clinical studies have documented that consuming about five ounces of lean beef daily can positively influence health markers. Beef supports a strong body by supplying important nutrients that help build strong muscles. And your heart is the most important muscle of them all! Good heart health is dependent on many factors like proper nutrition, sleep, and exercise. Including beef into your meals plays an important part of a heart healthy diet.

Beef is loaded with vitamins and minerals! And when it comes to having daily energy vitamin B12 is critical. And, beef is the best natural source of vitamin B12. It also supplies vitamins B2, B3, B5, B6, and K, and essential minerals such as zinc, potassium, iron, and magnesium. Keeping you healthy and providing critical support to your immune system. Beef provides all nine essential amino acids needed for your body to function at its best and delivers a healthy balance of essential fatty acids. Beef is also a leading dietary source of L-Carnitine, an important substance that enhances energy production by boosting fat metabolism. It aids in reducing inflammation and lowering blood pressure resulting in better heart health On top of all that beef is a great source of glutathione, the “master antioxidant” that helps your body defend against harmful free radicals. It can also help support immune function and metabolize toxins. Enjoying quality beef is a natural way to raise your glutathione levels.

While not all beef is created equal, and it’s important to know where your beef comes from, it’s important to know that beef is an essential part of a healthy balanced diet. It’s no wonder that the demand for healthy beef is at an all-time high.