With the rise in vegetarianism and veganism in response to the ethical and environmental concerns of eating meat, a number of people are left wondering whether meat is actually that important for optimal health. While vegetarian and vegan alternatives are better than they have ever been before, meat still provides essential nutrients and contributes to our overall health and well-being. In addition to this, meat and fish are incredibly important in a number of religions and cultures, such as the tradition of Qurbani 2023 in Islam and the custom of eating fish on Good Friday in Christianity.
To that end, detailed below are just some of the benefits of consuming a healthy amount of meat.
Weight Management
Firstly, since meat is substantial, it makes you feel full for a significant length of time, meaning you won’t fall victim to cravings as readily. As a result, this contributes to weight management, as you won’t find yourself snacking throughout the day to make up for unfulfilling meals. The reason that meat makes you feel fuller for longer is that it requires a significant amount of energy to digest, reducing appetite and increasing feelings of fullness. On top of this, meat is a prime source of protein and portion control, and the consumption of lean cuts allows people to benefit from meat’s thermogenic effects. This is essential for burning calories and maintaining a healthy body weight. Therefore, meat is an integral feature of a well-balanced diet that allows for weight management.
Enhanced Nutrient Absorption
Meat is often linked to the increased absorption of various nutrients, including non-heme iron, from plant-based sources. Not only does meat contain heme iron, but it also enhances the absorption of non-heme iron, resulting in it becoming more bioavailable to the body. This is of particular benefit to those with iron deficiency, as the consumption of meat could help them reach a healthy level of minerals for their health to be in optimal condition.
Rich in Essential Nutrients
Speaking of nutrients, meat itself is actually very rich in essential nutrients. It’s considered a nutrient-dense food, which is packed full of essential minerals and vitamins that all humans require for good health. For instance, meat contains omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, zinc, and iron, each of which plays an important role in the body’s function.
For instance, omega-3 fatty acids support brain function, reduce inflammation, and promote heart health. Vitamin B12 is essential for DNA synthesis, red blood cell production, and nerve function. Zinc is vital for tissue repair and immune function. Finally, iron is an integral part of energy production and oxygen transport.
Complete Protein Source
Essential amino acids are required for bodily functions to take place in a healthy capacity, and meat is an exceptional source of each of these vital proteins. These proteins maintain, repair and grow body tissues, making them the building blocks of life. This is on top of the fact that they’re essential for the development of enzymes, skin, organs, and muscles. Although there are various forms of plant-based proteins available, whether they’re natural or artificial, the proteins in meat are unequivocally superior.
Conclusion
Dietary preferences are more driven by morals than ever before and, while it’s noble to give up meat for ethical reasons, there’s no escaping the benefits it has on one’s health. Vegetarian and vegan food manufacturers work to mimic the unique benefits of meat; however, it just can’t quite be achieved in the same way. As far as a completely balanced diet is concerned, it would be difficult to achieve such in the absence of meat consumption.
