What’s the Beef with Animal Protein?

Most Americans eat too much protein and it is usually due to animal meat. Beef, pork, ham and chicken are great sources of protein, but it can also lead to other health issues when consumed in large quantities. Meat is known as a contracting food and when we eat a lot we create an imbalance in our bodies and quickly feel bloated, heavy, sluggish and slow.

Many Americans prefer beef as their main source of protein, but there are other meats, like duck, pheasant, buffalo, lamb, chicken and fish that are great options. Rotate these in your diet to avoid health concerns including heart disease, high blood pressure, constipation, high cholesterol and mad cow disease associated with eating a lot of beef. Dr. Barry Sears recommends eating a piece of meat no bigger and no thicker than the palm of your hand, so about 4 ounces.

Also, when you are buying meat, organic is always best. Animals raised on organic farms are treated more humanely than on factory farms and are free of antibiotics, added hormones, GMO feed and other drugs. Do you have a favorite source of animal protein? Check out some of our protein-rich recipes for more ideas.