Do I need to eat meat? The debate on this topic between ardent adherents of a vegetarian diet and staunch meat eaters has been going on for a long time, and will certainly continue in the future. As for dietitians, most of them are unanimous in the fact that meat is essential. But, of course, not forgetting about reasonable moderation, as well as the most useful methods of preparing this product.
Why people should eat meat
For the normal functioning of the body, a person must regularly and in sufficient quantities receive all the substances he needs: proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, micro and macro elements. And the main source of protein is meat. In addition, meat is rich in vitamins, especially those belonging to the B group, and some vital trace elements, for example, iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc, selenium, which, moreover, are there in an easily assimilable form.
Protein is the main building block that is absolutely essential for muscle tissue. Not receiving protein, a person becomes weak, his efficiency and endurance decrease. Therefore, be sure to eat meat!
The main argument of vegetarians that a number of plant foods are also high in protein is untenable. After all, the percentage of protein there is significantly less than in meat, and, in addition, vegetable protein is absorbed much worse than an animal.
Meat is an important element of a balanced diet
Even a committed meat-eater should not overuse his favorite food. After all, it is known that any excesses are harmful. It is quite enough if meat is present in the diet two, maximum three times a week, and in moderation. At the same time, it is advisable to consume it not with pasta or fried potatoes, but with healthy and low-calorie side dishes rich in vitamins and microelements, such as vegetable salads or boiled (stewed) vegetables. As a dressing, it is better to use not a fatty high-calorie sauce like mayonnaise, but fat-free sour cream or a mixture of vegetable oil with vinegar, lemon juice.
You should minimize the consumption of fatty meats (for example, pork), and focus on lean beef, veal or poultry meat - chicken, turkey.
It is advisable to eat meat boiled, stewed or baked. Of course, it is not easy for fans of fried meat with a crispy crust to give up their favorite dishes, but still it is better to avoid such food. Indeed, this crust contains a lot of harmful substances. To make the meat especially tender, juicy and tasty, you should marinate it before cooking.
Athletes, as well as people doing physical work, need to pay attention to meat products and introduce them into their diet. For small children, it is better to eat veal, turkey, hare.
