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For years, red meat has been at the center of conflicting studies and opinions. Some experts cautioned against its consumption, linking it to increased risks of heart disease and other health issues. But recent studies have challenged the longstanding assumptions about red meat, suggesting that its benefits have been silenced and its supposed negatives shouted for too long. So, which is it? Today, we’ll sink our teeth into this sizzling topic and uncover the meaty truths about red meat.
RED MEAT & SATURATED FATS
Red meat actually possesses an impressive array of nutrients essential for optimal health. Packed with high-quality protein, iron, zinc, B vitamins, and other vital micronutrients, it stands as a quality dietary source that shouldn't be overlooked. In fact, these nutrients are essential for a balanced diet and they contribute significantly to muscle development, energy production, and overall vitality. Beef is also one of the main sources of Choline, which helps regulate memory, mood, muscle control, and other brain and nervous system functions.
While red meat does contain more saturated fats compared to skinless chicken and fish, recent studies have sparked a reassessment of the conventional understanding of saturated fats' impact on health. For decades, these fats were cast as the primary dietary culprit behind heart disease, leading to the widespread trend of low-fat diets that swapped fats for sugars and refined carbohydrates. However, recent research has upheaved this narrative, challenging the blanket vilification of saturated fats. It suggests that saturated fats might not be as detrimental to health as once thought. In fact, some saturated fats found in red meat could offer benefits ranging from increasing beneficial HDL cholesterol, to cellular membrane structure, and it perhaps even reduces the risk of a stroke.
THE CARNIVORE DIET
Shawn Baker, the founder of the carnivore diet, would agree. Not only does he stand out as both an orthopedic surgeon and a world record holder in indoor rowing—but also a go-to source for all things carnivore.
The carnivore diet consists of consuming exclusively animal-based foods, like meat, fish, eggs, and dairy. Meaning that grains, legumes, fruits, and even vegetables are off-limits. Advocates of the carnivore diet argue that our early ancestors primarily subsisted on animal foods, attributing our evolutionary design to thrive on such a diet. Key benefits include: improved digestion, weight loss, mental clarity and energy, and reduced autoimmune symptoms.
Baker’s shift to this meat-only diet stemmed from a myriad of health issues, including extreme lethargy, sleep apnea, metabolic syndrome, back pain, joint complications, and more. To address these concerns, Baker delved into a zero-carb lifestyle, and eventually embraced the exclusive consumption of meat, leading to what's known as the carnivore diet. Remarkably, he reported feeling rejuvenated, claiming to feel 20 years younger.
Driven by his transformative experience, Baker explains his journey in his book, "The Carnivore Diet." This book details how his dietary shift reversed chronic ailments, autoimmune disorders, and even mental health struggles. To this day, Baker continues to advocate for the carnivore diet, shedding light on its positive impact and raising awareness. And on a lighter note, it's worth mentioning—he's a big fan of Good Ranchers! A true testament to his belief in high-quality red meat.
THE RED MEAT DEBATE![]()
This focus on quality meats brings up an essential aspect often overlooked in the red meat debate: that not all red meat is created equal. Processed meats, which have been more consistently linked to negative health outcomes, differ significantly from unprocessed cuts of meat. The quality of the meat, the animal's diet, where the animal was raised, the way the animal was raised, and the cooking methods can all influence health outcomes. However, uncovering the truth behind these factors has become increasingly challenging. The heart of the issue lies in the meat industry's lack of transparency. Over 85% of grass-fed beef sold in the US is imported from overseas, and Americans have no idea. In 2015, the C.O.O.L. law was repealed—which means that now, meat can be imported from overseas and then minimally processed in the United States and still receive a “Product of USA” label.
Imported red meat raises concerns, especially since they are more likely to have unknown hormone, antibiotic, and vaccination records. So let's give credit where it's due: American farms produce red meat unlike any other. When red meat is produced by American farmers on American farms, you can almost guarantee that it’s some of the best beef in the world. Red, American meat and American farmers have been painted one way by studies and media, but the picture painted is not truthful.
Why is American meat better? Well, studies show that red meat in America has a higher health standard compared to imported varieties due to stringent regulations and quality control measures in the United States. So, American farmers work diligently to meet these standards—by raising the animal ethically, giving them a quality diet USDA grades can only be given to beef that is born, raised, and harvested in the US, and the top grade of Prime continues to be some of the most sought after beef in the world.
This is why so many countries import steakhouse quality meat from the US and export lower quality, grass-fed beef back to our stores. So, by choosing American, red meat from a source you can trust, consumers can have greater confidence in its safety, quality, and adherence to higher health standards, ensuring a more wholesome and nutritious option on their plates.
At Good Ranchers, we believe that responsibly sourced red meat contributes to a nutritious, flavorful diet—and 100% American meat undoubtedly meets these standards. And lucky for you, 100% American meat happens to be what we specialize in. We’re committed to providing top-tier, ethically sourced American meats. So, if you’re ready to enjoy red meat without worrying about any health implications, subscribe to any of our boxes today!
Still curious about the carnivore diet? At Good Ranchers, we’re trying it out. Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook for daily updates, insights, and firsthand accounts of how this experiment unfolds!