In a world filled with so many different philosophies about nutrition and fitness, perhaps no aspect of personal health has undergone more iterations in the national consciousness than how to eat. Veganism, vegetarianism, the Atkins diet, the keto diet, the paleo diet, the South Beach diet, the Weight Watchers point system, and the Volumetrics diet are all aspects of one important truth—a consensus that almost every nutritionist and fitness instructor on the planet seems to agree on—that in the pursuit of a healthy lifestyle, “fitness is 20% exercise and 80% nutrition.”
There was no shortage of platitudes touting the enormous importance of nutrition over exercise and activity.
- “You can’t run from your fork.”
- “Abs are built in the kitchen, not the gym.“
- “You can overeat any workout plan.”
- “Aggressive exercise and poor nutrition are one step forward, two steps back.”
While we’ve all had workout fads that were heralded as “the way“ to get the body you’ve always dreamed of – from idolizing the muscle-bound amateurs who popularized weight lifting in the ’70s, to the power walking craze of the ’80s to the celebrity-led workout videos of the ’90s – it seems that we, as a community, have decided that diet is the key to living a life of complete health and fitness.
THIS IS WHAT’S FOR DINNER
The unity we all feel about the importance of diet doesn’t mean we all agree on what diet we should follow, as shown above. The most beloved yet infamous food regarding great taste and health benefits is at the center of this debate: red meat. For those who do whole-body analysis, it’s almost second nature to either blame overconsumption of beef or worry about not eating enough.
But what’s the truth about red meat? Is it good for you, or has science finally caught up and is now entirely out of favor in the cooking rotation? Let’s dig in a little.
MODERATION LEADS TO A HEALTHIER LIFESTYLE
The latest study, published in the  Harvard Medical School Journal of Health,  follows a still-heated debate for and against red meat. The report’s impetus was a paper published in 2019 that declared that “eating red meat is OK.“ The response was predictably mixed. While the researchers found that there was no link between red meat consumption and worsening pre-existing conditions like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes, their critics were quick to point out that for every test they used as the basis for their findings, another test refuted it.
Ultimately, Harvard found that “evidence suggests that people with relatively low intakes have lower health risks. The general recommendation is to have no more than two or three servings per week.” It’s also important to note the difference between red and processed red meat. The latter contains several additives that can be harmful to health. Research shows that some of these additives can increase the risk of colon cancer, inflammation, and other serious diseases. So the recommendation is to eat quality, unprocessed red meat in moderation two to three times per week.
The question is why. Why are we advised to eat it in moderation, and why is there a war on the value of fear-mongering regarding red meat? Because red meat can actually be quite good for you.
HEALTHY AND TASTY
In the end, when it comes to quality red meat, we find a food source that is great for cooking because it promotes muscle growth and brain health. According to research, red meat contains:
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin B3
- Vitamin B6
- Vitamin B12
- Vitamin E
- Iron
- Zinc
- Selenium
- Creatine
- CarnosineÂ
- Omega 3
But before you start eating beef every day, remember: only a little of anything is terrible, even exercise and drinking water (unless you do it sensibly).
IS REDDER BETTER?
Ultimately, there are questions about the viability of a particular type of food and how it can help you achieve your personal goals for a healthier lifestyle. Consulting with a licensed dietitian, such as those at Total Health and Fitness, is best. Our team of professionals will guide you down the right path to knowing what needs to happen in your body to get the best results for your goals.
The best way to overcome the fear of a particular food or exercise style is to educate yourself. Our trainers are educators first and foremost and will ensure you work with the best and most up-to-date research. Meal prep for a healthy life doesn’t have to be a chore. Let’s get started today!
