For years, the benefits of eating red meat have been celebrated, with people often highlighting how important it is to include good portions in a diet for it to be healthy. Excitingly, studies have shown that the proteins found in beef can help combat cancer and even depression.
Despite its reputation for being linked to various health risks when compared to chicken, new research from Deakin University in Australia suggests otherwise. Conducted by Professor Felice Jacka, a study involving 1,000 women found that those who ate the recommended amount of red meat had a 50% lower risk of depression compared to those who ate less.
Among the women studied, only a small number were vegetarians, resulting in different observations. For the meat-eaters, those who consumed less than the recommended portion of red meat were twice as likely to experience depression compared to those who ate the right amount. The researchers themselves were surprised by these findings, attributing the positive effects to the quality of Australian cattle, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and beneficial proteins.
The study also took into account various factors like socio-economic status, physical activity, weight, age, and smoking habits since these can all influence mental health. Intriguingly, only beef had a noticeable impact on mental health, while proteins from chicken, prawns, fish, pork, or plants did not yield similar results.
Addressing the ongoing debate between grass-fed and corn-fed cattle, the researchers suggested that Australian grass-fed cattle are healthier. Cattle confined to small spaces and fed corn often become ill, leading to harmful microbes being passed on to humans through the meat.
Proper cattle maintenance is crucial, as corn-fed cattle kept in tight spaces lack exercise and the nutrients from grass, resulting in meat high in saturated fats and less healthy for consumption. In contrast, traditionally grazed cattle produce meat rich in beneficial unsaturated fatty acids.
However, too much beef can be just as detrimental as too little. Authorities in Australia recommend consuming 50 to 100 grams of lean meat three to four times a week. Consuming too much can actually trigger depression rather than prevent it. The Department of Health in Australia advises no more than 70 grams of red meat per day for optimal mental health.
It’s important to not only eat the right amount but also prepare it correctly. Learn which cooking methods preserve the meat’s proteins and avoid methods that diminish nutritional value. Beef can be enjoyed in many ways, such as protein-rich beef jerky strips. The key is ensuring that beef proteins make it into your diet.
Understanding the benefits and preparation methods for beef can help improve both physical and mental health. So, whether for its cancer-fighting properties or its power to combat depression, beef can be a valuable part of a healthy diet.