ANOTHER LOOK AT MEAT CONSUMPTION

ANOTHER LOOK AT MEAT CONSUMPTION            

With the various types of diets, fad and otherwise, promoted in the media it may not seem clear which is the healthiest. Is it healthier to eat a vegetarian diet or a low-carb diet, mainly of meat and little of others?

In small amounts, meat may be beneficial for health. Meat is an important source of nutrients, such as protein, iron, zinc and several B vitamins. Growing concerns about meat have arisen from studies that found an overall increase in early deaths in people with high intakes of red and processed meats.

Recent study suggest that processed meat may be potentially more harmful than red meat. One possible reason is that processed meats, sausages, salami and bacon have more saturated fat.

Another possible explanation is that the processing — salting, curing, smoking — may lead to more exposure to carcinogens (compounds that cause cancer).

It's all about reframing your image of a healthy meal. Instead of meat with a side of veggies and grain, flip the quantities around. Enjoy the flavors of your meat. Add it to salads and vegetable dishes. Have fun and enjoy.