Meat is a great source of protein and lots of vitamins and minerals. Red meat is the meat derived from farm-reared animals, such as ham, cuts from pigs, lamb, beef. 140 g of the chicken breast containing 130kcal, 2.6g fat (0.7g saturated fat) and 66mg Cholesterol. When compared to the same amount of pork (lean cut), which contains 240kcal, 7g fat (2.5g saturated fat), and 125mg cholesterol, which one to choose, come let’s have a deeper look!
Red meat is the meat of goat, pork. or beef, while White meat is the meat of chicken, fish which has more protein and less fat. Dark meat is the meat of animals which are at least 1 year old.
Red meat is muscles which are used for extended periods of activity, such as standing or walking and need a consistent energy source. The protein myoglobin stores oxygen in muscle cells, which use oxygen to extract the energy needed for the constant activity. Myoglobin is a richly pigmented protein. The more myoglobin there is in the cells, the redder, or darker, the meat is.
When talking about red meat it contains:
- nutrients specifically, protein, vitamin B12, and the minerals iron and zinc.
- And on the other hand, it has a high amount of fats which is harmful to the body.
- According to World Health Organisation(WHO), red meat is likely a carcinogen.
White meat is the muscles which are used at the time of quick bursts of activity, such as
fleeing from danger. These muscles get energy from glycogen, which is also stored in the muscles.
White meat includes poultry and fish but excludes all mammal flesh. While when talking about white meat:
- Has the highest dietary source of protein.
- It is known to be the ideal lean fat.
Conclusion
First of all, all meat is nutritious and full of protein, nutrients, and other beneficial compounds. The main advantage is the much higher vitamin B12 content.
The battle is to decide between the two is because of the fat content between the two. As seen in above mentioned nutritional facts, the cholesterol levels and saturated fats content are higher in red meat as compared to white meat, which will not be a healthier choice for a heart patient, or who is undergoing cholesterol management programme.
But if taken in certified amount, like 1 pc of white meat then ½ pc of red meat which will act salutary.
