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A meat shortage due to the coronavirus pandemic may not be a bad thing for our health. According toInsider, here are 7 reasons why:
- Cuts of fattier red meat are high can be high in saturated fat, which can lead to high cholesterol levels.
- Type 2 diabetes can develop from frequent consumption of red meat.
- Fatigue or dehydration are side effects resulting from eating too much red or processed meat.
- Red meat can potentially increase cancer risk according to some experts.
- Processed meat products have also been linked to a higher risk of heart disease.
- Red meat has also been tied to weight gain and even obesity.
- Some health officials recommend eating around 3 ounces of cooked lean meat a day to maintain a healthy diet.
"Research into flexitarian or semi-vegetarian dietary patterns has shown benefits including reduced risk of type 2 diabetes, colorectal cancer, lowered blood pressure, and improved dietary quality," Rachael Hartley, a registered dietitian, nutritionist, and owner of Rachael Hartley Nutrition who specializes in promoting intuitive eating and non-diet approaches, told Insider.
"If you're interested in eating less meat, instead think about ways you can add in more meatless meals, which is more sustainable, and a physically and mentally healthier way of approaching it," Rachael Hartley told Insider. "Consider ways you can experiment with more bean-based meals, try eggs or dairy for vegetarian protein sources, or see if there are meat substitutes you enjoy."
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