Why beef should still be what's for dinner

By: Greg Haskell

Published: Apr 17, 2023

Let's bring it back.

Back in the 90’s (damn we get nostalgic in this blog, huh?) there was a popular slogan: “Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner.” It was a staple in households across America. It still is for The Fittest families, but if you say that out loud these days, you’ll be ostracized. What changed?

Well, a lot changed, we suppose. Society changed. Priorities changed. American diets changed. But you know what didn’t change? The fact that beef is one of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet.

What's so special about beef?

Beef protein is an essential part of the human diet, providing the body with necessary amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. It is a key component in building and repairing tissues, maintaining all-important muscle mass, and supporting the immune system.

Amino acids...

One thing the meat haters don’t want to hear is that animal protein contains all nine essential amino acids that the human body cannot produce on its own. These amino acids are critical for the production of enzymes, hormones, and other essential compounds. Without them, the body can’t function properly, leading to a veritable butt load of health problems. Animal protein is a complete protein source that provides all nine essential amino acids in adequate amounts, which makes it better than just about everything.

Vitamins and minerals...

Beef is also rich in vitamins and minerals that are essential for overall health. It’s a great source of iron, which is important for the production of red blood cells. Without adequate iron, the body can become anemic, leading to fatigue, weakness, and other health problems. Grass-fed beef, the only kind you should be eating, is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for brain health and may reduce the risk of heart disease. It has vitamin B12, which is only found in animal products and is essential for the formation of red blood cells and the maintenance of nerve cells.

Digestive ease...

If we haven’t sold you on beef protein yet… it is more easily digested and absorbed by the body than plant protein. Animal protein contains a higher percentage of essential amino acids, which are easier for the body to digest and absorb. This means that the body can use more of the protein for building and repairing tissues. Additionally, animal protein is often more bioavailable than plant protein, meaning that the body can absorb more of the nutrients in animal protein compared to plant protein.

So let’s go back to the 90’s (and all the way back to the time of our predecessors) and start eating more beef. Your body will thank you.