Lean Meat May Help Reduce Cholesterol Levels
Lean Meat May Help Reduce Cholesterol Levels
The Indian Express reported that lean red meat might not be as unhealthy as thought of.
Despite the fact that meat offers several nutritional benefits, it has long been associated with chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes and cancer. But now there is substantial evidence that lean red may not significantly increase blood cholesterol or bad cholesterol (LDL) levels if it is trimmed to remove visible fat before consuming. Studies have shown that meat is low in saturated fat and can be included as a part of a healthy diet. In fact, it helps to reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol in people who have high and normal cholesterol levels.
Based on previous studies and observations, people who ate 250 gm of red meat every day had a higher risk of colon cancer. So the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) and the American Dietetic Association (ADA) recommend limiting red meat consumption to 250 gm a week.
The quality of lean meat and its processing also plays an important role when it comes to healthy diet. Studies have shown that processed meat such as sausages, bacon and salami increase the risk of bowel cancer more than red meat. They contain more fats and are also associated with cancer causing substances like nitrites. Therefore, it is recommended that cured or processed meats should be eaten as a condiment or flavouring with foods rather than as a main dish.