Protein- Red Meat is high in protein, the building blocks of the human body, protein is essential for tissue repair and muscle growth which is vital when conducting any form of physical exercise. While building muscle mass is an excellent way to speed up your metabolism and lose weight, it is also responsible for producing enzymes and hormones that prevent illness.
Iron- Iron is required by the red blood cells to transport oxygen around the body. Iron deficiencies contribute to learning difficulties, low energy and learning problems. It is recommended for women to consume 18mg of iron and for men 8mg per day to ensure adequate iron intake. The iron in red meat contains a molecule known as heme which is what makes it the most easily absorbed (15-35% as opposed to 10% for non-heme) source of iron.
Zinc- Red meat is a rich source of zinc, a mineral which is responsible for a wide range of functions including strengthening the immune system, building muscle and promoting a healthy brain. With studies showing that a large percentage of the western populations being deficient in zinc, red meat is a great way to get your zinc intake up.
B Vitamins- Red meat is an excellent natural source of B Vitamins. Eating foods that contain naturally occurring B Vitamins is vital for a healthy functioning body. Lean red meat contains vitamin B-12 (which isn't found in plant based foods) is vital for healthy red blood cells, growth and energy production. Thiamine (B-1) is responsible for the steady and continuous release of energy, and is also required for a normal functioning nervous system. Riboflavin (B-2) is involved in multiple metabolic pathways and also contribute to healthy skin. Niacin (B-3) is involved in the utilization of food energy. Pyridoxine (B-6) is necessary for the formation of haemoglobin.
Fats- Due to modern farming processes, diet and butcher techniques the fat content of meat has been greatly reduced over the last few decades. Meat contains moderate amounts of saturate fats which in recent time has been shown to be good for you when consumed in the right amounts. Australian Beef and Lamb also contains Omega 3 fatty acids (not as much as fish) which is an essential fatty acid that must be supplied through the diet.
In conclusion, we recommend incorporating some red meats in your diet, however it is important to consider always choosing good quality cuts of meats that have less fat content to avoid high saturated fat content, as saturated fats should only take up roughly 5-6% of total daily calories.
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