Is Red Meat Good For You?

Consuming too much red meat might cause health problems. People in UK consume too much red meat and UK’s Department of Health is urging people to cut down.  The Scientific Advisory Committee stated that there might be some connection between red meat and increased risk of bowel cancer.  

“Bowel cancer is a problem in the United Kingdom just as it is in the United States. There are more than 36,000 cases of bowel cancer in the U.K. each year, with more than 16,500 deaths annually from the disease.”
Now it is important to understand that eliminating red meat from your diet is not good either, since it is a good source of protein, vitamins and minerals. 

It is suggested that 70 grams of red meat a day is a healthy portion; however a lot of people consume 90 grams a day or more.  70 grams is the equivalent of three slices of ham, one lamb chop or two slices of roast beef a day.

People should also try to avoid processed meat because of the even higher risk of bowel cancer.  Arne Astrup, a nutrition professor at the University of Copenhagen, suggested people substitute red meat with more lean sources of protein like fish.  Canada's Food Guide recommends eating one to three servings of meat or meat alternatives every day. 

According to estimates released by the World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF), a total of 3,800 cases of bowel cancer can be reduced by decreasing the amounts of processed meat eaten by people.

Health officials are not saying that we should eliminate red meat all together but we do have to be mindful and always try to eat a balanced diet.  Try to substitute red meat with fish or white meat or even better some veggies.