Sunday, May 29, 2011

Grass-Fed is Great!

A study published by the British Journal of Nutrition (Vol. 105, issue 01) earlier this year again confirms that red meat from animals that eat grass is better and not only that, it's actually good for your heart. Omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial in our diets because they help stabalize atherosclerotic plaques, which reduces the liklihood that the plaque will rupture, causing a number of heart and artery issues. These specific fatty acids also reduce arterial inflammation and clotting. So, EATING GRASS-FED RED MEAT IS ACTUALLY GOOD FOR YOUR HEART!

* Grass-fed meat has a significantly better fat and antioxidant profile than grain-finished meat. And before critics claim victory regarding saturated fats, allow me to say that the levels of saturated fats in grain vs. grass fed are similar, but the specific saturated fats that are associated with harmful cholesterol levels are higher in industrial meat. (What you normally see at your grocery store)

* Grass-fed meat contains higher levels of conjugated linoleic acids (CLA), which have been linked to reduced cancer rates, reduced arterial disease and reduced diabetes levels.

* Grass-fed meats' omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acid ratio is closer to the dietary ideal, making it better for your brain than industrial meat.

* Grass-fed meat contains more Vitamin A and Vitamin E precursors.

Grass-fed red meats are leaner and contain proportionally more of many important nutrients. And, it just tastes better! You can order a steak from your favorite restaurant and it might look and feel juicy and tender, but your first bites leaves you with a dissapointing lack of flavor...which is why you always have to cover it in some kind of sauce. My Dad always said he could make a better steak at home...and indeed, he could. Our family has been eating grass-fed meat for a long time and we love it. You'll be amazed at how much more easily it's digested, meaning you feel strong and satisfied after your steak, rather than full and bloated. I love to marinate my steaks in any oil/acid combination like olive oil and balsamic vinegar or olive oil and Worchestershire, season it nicely with salt, pepper, garlic, and onion or even a Chinese 5-spice mixture (thanks to my friend Jillia) and some soy sauce. Whatever flavors you're in the mood for! You'll find a great source for grass-fed meat in my list to the right: click on www.eatwild.com. Or, if you have a couple acres and are a little ambitious like us, you can buy your own beef cow! Either way, you're doing something better for your health.