Is meat bad for you?
Years of conflicting nutrition research makes that question complicated to answer.
Here’s what experts say.
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)should have a place on any healthy eaters plate.
A whole lot of confusing research
Confused about meat?
Nutrition research is constantly sending mixed messages (and not just about meat).
There are other reasons for conflicting evidence.
But that thinking makes traditional advice to eat everything in moderation unappealing.
The people who study and practice nutrition every day ultimately recommend moderation for the healthiest, most sustainable diet.
Its not just red meat thats potentially a problem, either.
That said, animal proteins do offer a number of unique health benefits.
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And beef, specifically, is a great source of immune-supporting zinc and brain-boosting choline.
Okay, so is any amount of meat healthy?
But you shouldnt feel forced to cut out meat completely if you enjoy it.
Theres nothing you have to avoid in your diet to be healthy.
Your body is not going to shut down if you eat some red meat.
Its all about balance and moderation, says Moskovitz.
Most saturated fat in poultry is in the skin, says Zeitlin.
And while pork is technically a red meat, many cuts are actually very lean.
Thats visually tiny compared to what most Americans are eating, she says.
Zeitlin is a bit more cautious, suggesting four weekly servings of white meat poultry max.
As far as fish goes, experts say its more about a minimum than a max.
Of course, those meat products should be eaten within an overall healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
If you keep the portion of protein lean and small, youll be fine, she says.
If you ultimately choose to forego meat, dont forget that it is possible to be an unhealthy vegetarian.
If a vegetarian diet is not balanced, it can be very unhealthy, says Dr. Blake.
Likewise, dont be fooled by the health halos of alt-meat.
Dont assume all animal-based products are unhealthy or all plant products are healthy, says Dr. Blake.
As with real hamburgers,moderation is key with most alt-meat products.
Looking for some legit healthy plant proteins to round out your meat consumption?
These are an RDs top picks:
Another confusing healthy eating topic?Processed foods.
And heres your no-nonsense guide towhat serving sizes should really look likefor 10 healthy foods.
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