Meat sticks are often low in carbohydrates and high in protein because they are comprised of dried, seasoned meat. It’s easy to assume a snack item is healthy when you can say that, but are meat sticks genuinely healthy? Yes, theoretically. However, the response is contingent on how it was prepared, the ingredients used, and who is asking.
A Beef Stick’s Nutritional Profile
You’ll note that they have a lot of the same nutritional benefits as ordinary beef, with a few exceptions. After all, beef is the main ingredient in beef sticks. This indicates that jerky products created from grass-fed beef have the most nutritional value, whereas jerky from commercially bred livestock has the lowest. Here’s what you get from a beef stick in terms of nutrients and why it can be a better choice than other foods.
Protein
The average beef stick has 6.1 grams of protein per 1 oz. Serving is nearly 13% of the total recommended dietary requirement for women and slightly less than 11% for men.
Protein has numerous advantages, including:
- Increases muscle mass by keeping you fuller for longer
- Increases bone density
- Cravings are reduced.
- Increases metabolism
- Protein derived from grass-fed cattle is more easily absorbed by the body than protein derived from feed-lot animals
Minerals And Vitamins
Vitamins and minerals are nutrients that aid in the maintenance of good health. The following are the essential minerals contained in beef jerky:
Zinc – aids in the treatment of acne, the prevention of colds, and the reduction of blood sugar, which is beneficial to diabetics.
Iron – aids in the maintenance of healthy cells, skin, hair, and nails, as well as increasing red blood cell synthesis, which keeps your energy levels high.
Sodium – aids in the replenishment of electrolytes in the body after strenuous exercise, but too much might raise blood pressure.
Vitamins A, B, C, and calcium are also present in trace amounts in beef sticks.
Fats
Although the word “fat” can be frightening, it is one of three “macronutrients” contained in our diet. While there are good and harmful fats, both aid in absorbing vitamins and minerals, protecting our organs, and providing energy in the body. Regardless of the fact that fat has health benefits, individuals should consume it in moderation. Some beef sticks contain as much as 16 grams of fat per ounce of fat, which is nearly the daily recommended limit. As a result, when choosing a beef snack, caution is advised.