As a certified nutritionist, I get asked quite often: is red meat healthy? 

There is so much conflicting information out there. Some saying red meat will kill you and others saying red meat is a super food.

But, who is right?

I’m going to put this argument to bed and give you a simple answer. Let’s start with the negative claims about red meat.

Red Meat Causes Cancer

Some studies have shown populations that eat more red meat have an increased risk of cancer.

However, people who eat more red meat will often tend to eat more processed foods and drink alcohol too.

Studies that have taken this into consideration and just compared people who had similar lifestyles, but just ate more red meat showed no difference in cancer risk.

Also these studies did not differentiate high quality beef and processed meats. 

So processed meats without doubt cause an increased risk in cancer however high quality red meat do not.

Red Meat Increases Cholesterol 

Saturated fat does increase LDL cholesterol, which in turn can increase your risk of cardiovascular disease. 

However, 50% of fat in red meat is actually monounsaturated fat like in olive oil.

Eating fatty cuts of meat in excess can increase your bad LDL cholesterol.

But, by sticking to leaner cuts such as fillet steak and lean mince you will get an incredibly high quality protein source without the negative effects on your cholesterol.

Red Meat Is A Super Food

Red meat contains the most bio available source of iron haem iron and is full of other essential vitamins and minerals.

Vitamin B12, Selenium and Zinc all powerhouses at improving testosterone production.

It is also an incredibly high quality source of bioavailable protein.

Conclusion 

Saturated fat does increase your risk of heart disease and processed meat does increase your risk of cancer.

Red meat is without doubt a super food. If you’re consuming lean cuts of high quality meat it will not increase your risk of cancer or heart disease.

So, start eating steak to get lean, healthy and strong.