Nutritional Benefits of Organic Grass-Fed Beef That May Change Your Perception of Red Meat
As we become more health-conscious and aware of what we put inside our bodies, the demand for healthier food alternatives arises. But, unfortunately, one of the biggest questions that plague many meat-lovers is the great dilemma over whether or not we should eat red meat and whether or not its source makes a real difference.
Have you ever questioned whether organic grass-fed beef is that much better for you or if the proudly displayed “grass-fed” and “organic” labels are just a marketing tactic? Is it worth the extra cost and effort to seek it out?
What’s the beef with grass-fed beef, anyway?
If we had to answer in one word, the answer is yes!
There is a significant difference between beef sourced from grain-fed cattle when compared with organic grass-fed pastured beef from free-range cattle. So much so that organic grass-fed beef is not only safe to consume but also comes with potential health benefits and a much better taste!
What are the health benefits of consuming organic grass-fed beef, and why does the consumption of red meat generally receive so much bad press?
Let’s get to the meat of this debate!
The Difference Between Organic, Grass-Fed, and Grain-Fed Beef
Take a second to imagine where does your beef come from? Frequently, our mind paints a picture of a green grassy field on a beautiful sunny day. But, unfortunately, in the case of grain-fed beef, that is hardly ever the case.
As the demand for meat grows, farmers have resorted to faster and more cost-effective feeding methods. In this case, they opted in for grain-based products, typically made from soy and corn. As if this were not enough, most feedlot cows are often kept in tight spaces with little room to roam and fed antibiotics to treat any infection that may arise from the lack of activity and breathable fresh air.
This grain-fed beef is the standard packaged meat you can find in your local supermarket, and the reason for the bad press red meat receives from health experts.
Grass-fed beef, on the other hand, is sourced from cattle that were able to freely roam a pasture and feed on their natural source of food, grass. This natural diet combined with the ability to roam, exercise, and breathe fresh air is what distinguishes grass-fed beef from traditional red meat.
Because of their ability to roam and eat a natural diet, grass-fed cattle are less likely to contract infections and receive antibiotic treatment, resulting in a healthier and tastier cut of meat.
What About Organic?
Organic beef is a category of its own, although it is frequently combined with one of two types of red meat above.
Organic grain-fed beef comes from farms that do not use harmful pesticides, GMOs and are fed an organic grain diet made up of organic soy and corn. This does not imply that the cows could freely roam and feed on their natural diet.
Organic grass-fed beef, the crème de la crème of all red meat, combines the natural diet of grass with the lack of pesticides, GMOs, and sewer sludge. The cows are free to roam, feed on their preferred food source, and exist in an environment free of harmful chemicals. The meat is not only certified organic, a process that can take up to three years to complete but is also labeled as grass-fed, serving you the perfect cut of beef you've ever experienced.
Nutritional Benefits of Organic Grass-Fed Beef
Now that we understand the core differences between the three types of red meat; let's dive into the health and nutritional benefits of replacing your favorite filet-mignon with its organic grass-fed alternative.
After all, who said you can’t enjoy a good meal while looking out for your health?
- Organic Grass-Fed Beef Has Fewer Calories
Grass-fed beef comes from cattle who consume a diet primarily of grass during their lives. Therefore, a cow's diet considerably affects the types and levels of nutrients you get from consuming meat from those cattle.
Meat derived from grass-fed cows is loaded with more nutrition than a grain-fed cow. In addition to eating a "healthier" diet, grass-fed cows can graze and roam throughout their lives, resulting in more lean muscle than fat. As a result, the meat from grass-fed cows is less fatty and contains fewer calories.
- Grass-Fed Beef Supports Healthy Blood Sugar Level
One of the most effective ways of keeping your blood sugar at optimal levels is consuming a diet rich in healthy fats. For example, grass-fed beef is rich in a nutrient called CLA. This healthy fat contributes to insulin regulation in our bodies.
One recent study, published by the Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism, concluded that 37% of participants being treated with CLA resulted in improved insulin sensitivity than those that were not.
- Grass-Fed Beef Is Full Of Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Often we'll hear about the importance of consuming Omega-3's for our brain health. Omega-3 fatty acids are rich in anti-inflammatory antioxidants are prevent premature aging, support our brain function and memory, and are overall fantastic for our health. However, you'll be happy to hear that salmon is not the only source of Omega-3's.
Grass-fed beef can have 3x-4x the amount of Omega 3’s as grain-fed beef! So, the next time you eat your favorite cut of organic grass-fed beef, you are also protecting your brain health and improving its function!
- Organic Grass-Fed Beef Can Improve Your Heart Health
Contrary to popular belief, a narrative based on the adverse health effects of grain-fed beef, organic grass-fed beef is not only safe for you to enjoy but can also improve your heart rate and decrease your risk of heart disease.
Yes, you heard that right! Red meat CAN be good for your heart!
Clinical studies concluded that consuming a nutrient known as CLA, a powerful polyunsaturated fatty acid, has been shown to help fight cancer, discourage weight gain, and maintain a healthy cholesterol level.
Additionally, grass-fed beef contains high amounts of vitamin A and E. In addition, it is rich in Stearic acid, a type of saturated fat that can not only lower LDL cholesterol but is believed to provide heart-protective benefits.
Where To Find Organic Grass-Fed Beef?
While most local supermarkets will offer traditional grain-fed beef and grass-fed beef, rarely, the grass-fed beef is also organic. Because grass-fed claims are rarely regulated, the best way to ensure that you consume only the highest quality of meat is to always opt-in for certified organic grass-fed beef.
Vermont Natural Beef provides our customers with organic grass-fed beef ethically sourced from local farmers.
What’s even more incredible is that this high-quality organic grass-fed beef is delivered straight to your door!
You can now enjoy your favorite cut of beef without ever having to leave the house while also caring for your health!
A triple threat to grain-fed cows everywhere! Try it for yourself and taste the difference.
Comments