You’must have read or heard already about three important types of low-fat foods: fruits, veggies and whole grains. What about meats?
Why Are Chicken, Fish and Beans Better Than Red Meat?
In general, red meats (beef, pork and lamb) have more cholesterol and saturated (bad) fat than chicken, fish and vegetable proteins such as beans. Cholesterol and saturated fat can raise your blood cholesterol and make heart disease worse. Chicken and fish have less saturated fat than most red meat. The unsaturated fats in fish, such as salmon, actually have health benefits. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and some plant sources, may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Beans don’t contain cholesterol, only animal products do. There are many types of beans – pinto, kidney, garbanzo, soybeans, etc. – and they’re all good for you. Put lentils, split peas and black-eyed peas on the list, too! None of them have cholesterol unless they’re prepared with meat (such as pork and beans) or with lard (such as refried beans).
Tips for People Who Like Meat
It’s OK to eat red meat as long as you limit the amount. The American Heart Association recommends that people limit lean meat, skinless chicken and fish to less than six ounces per day, total. Fish (3.5 oz./serving) should be eaten at least twice per week, preferably fish high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, trout and herring.
Use the tips below to lower the amount of saturated fat and cholesterol you get when you eat meat.
- One portion of meat is about the size of a deck of cards or three ounces.
- Choose lean cuts of meat. Lean cuts usually contain the words “round,” “loin” or “sirloin” on the package.
- Trim off as much fat as you can before cooking, and pour off the melted fat after cooking.
- Use healthier cooking methods: bake, broil, stew and grill.
Note: Eating a lot of meat is not a healthy way to lose weight, especially if you have heart disease.
-heart.org
