Lean Cuts of Meat

The Subconscious Fat of It

Mr. Skeptical looks over my shoulder, sees my writing, and raises an eyebrow. “Lean meat, huh? I thought that was the holy grail of healthy eating. Low fat, high protein. What’s the problem?”

I smile and shake my head. “That’s a common misconception. Lean meat isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.”

LOCAL LOVE: DAVID ARTHUR WALTERS 
I often see David at Crunch using the exercise machines, and he uses the classroom floor for dancing. He’s a regular at Crunch. He frequently comes by to give me a quirky remark or joke. I’m grateful that he took many of my pictures on social media. Yet, most of all, David writes. He’s been writing a lot for years. The writing is often funny and sarcastic. See his writing here. 

Subconscious Fat at 30,000 feet

The common wisdom has long been that lean meat is the best choice for health-conscious individuals. After all, it’s low in fat and high in protein, right? However, recent research and a deeper understanding of nutrition reveal that fat is an essential component of a healthy diet, even when it comes to meat.

Mr. Skeptical chimes in, “So, what’s wrong with lean meat?”

“Lean meat lacks the essential fats our bodies need to function optimally. Fat is crucial for hormone production, nutrient absorption, and maintaining energy levels. Plus, fat makes the meat more satisfying and flavorful. Many individuals make the mistake when starting a carnivore diet that they should eat lean meat. That’s a big mistake, and you won’t reap the benefits of a carnivore diet.”

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Subconscious Fat at 10,000 feet

Let’s dig a little deeper. When you eat only lean meat, you miss out on fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K. These vitamins require dietary fat for proper absorption. You can become deficient in these critical nutrients without enough fat in your diet.

Mr. Skeptical nods slowly. “Okay, but what about the fear of saturated fat and heart disease?”

“That’s another misconception. Studies have shown that saturated fat is not the villain it was once thought to be. In fact, many sources of saturated fat, like those found in grass-fed meats, benefit heart health. They can help raise HDL (the good cholesterol) and improve the LDL (bad cholesterol) profile.”

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Subconscious Fat at Eye-Level

Let’s talk about some evidence. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found no significant evidence for concluding that dietary saturated fat is associated with an increased risk of coronary heart disease. Another study in the British Journal of Nutrition showed that people who consume higher amounts of saturated fats have lower rates of stroke.

Mr. Skeptical furrows his brow. “So, you’re saying we should be eating more fat?”

“Exactly. Especially healthy fats like those found in grass-fed beef, which is higher in omega-3 fatty acids and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), both of which have numerous health benefits.”

Mr. Skeptical scratches his head. “But isn’t lean meat better for weight loss?”

“Not necessarily. Fat is more satiating than protein or carbohydrates, which can help control hunger and reduce overall calorie intake. Plus, fats are essential for metabolic health and help regulate insulin levels, which is crucial for weight management.”

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Practical Suggestions and Conclusions

To get the best nutritional benefits from your meat, choose cuts that include a healthy amount of fat. Look for grass-fed options whenever possible, as they provide a better fat profile and more nutrients than conventionally raised meats.

Mr. Skeptical sighs. “I guess I need to rethink my diet.”

“You’re not alone. Many people have been misled by outdated nutritional advice. The leader of this was a man named Ancel Keys way back in the 1950’s see that post here. The key is to focus on fatty meat, which humans are adapted to eat.”

Mr. Skeptical shakes his head. “You know, sometimes you make too much sense. It’s annoying.”

I laugh and pat him on the back. “Don’t worry. You’ll get used to it. Speaking of annoying: I find it irritating how lean meat is still promoted as healthy by so many marketing companies and authority figures. It makes me think of the following quote by James Baldwin: 

“People are trapped in history and history is trapped in them.” 

Even the beef industry promotes selling lean beef. The chart shows how the beef industry created more lean cuts to sell to the misinformed public.

The goal is to nourish your body with all the essential nutrients. Don’t fear the fat in your meat. Embrace it for better health and vitality.

Think of it this way: if you want your body to use fat as fuel, you must eat it.

Be aware.

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