We all know that we should lay off red meat for the sake of our health. But, eating lamb weekly can improve brain function. No other red meat has the same impact.
Lamb isn’t a meat most Americans eat frequently. But, as winter approaches, it is good to keep in mind as it is delicious in stews, slow cooker recipes or curries. It’s farmed in every state, all year round. While it might not be as prominent in the supermarket, it is there. It’s delicious as chops and legs are sometimes on sale for low prices around the holidays — some people on our team like to cut them up and freeze them into smaller portions.
While lamb is frequently fattier than beef, it’s higher in omega-3 fatty acids. It has less fat marbling, making the fat easier to trim off. It has higher levels of ruminant trans fats, believed to be beneficial for health, than beef or veal. This fat has been linked to reduced body fat, but large amounts might not be healthy, so it is crucial to eat lamb in moderation. It’s also a great source of protein, iron, niacin, phosphorus, selenium, vitamin B12 and zinc.
Lamb has 50 percent of the amount of omega-3 fatty acids found in tuna. It’s a staple in Mediterranean cuisine and pairs well with the flavors of the region. We recently wrote that you can modify the Mediterranean diet to fit any style of cooking you like. But, if you want to try and eat more Mediterranean fare, lamb is a great option. It’s also a good choice for meat-eaters who desire the benefits of fish without the fish!
There are so many excellent reasons to eat lamb. In America, each person generally eats less than one pound per year. Globally, each person consumes more than four pounds. As eating lamb weekly can have benefits for brain health, we suggest trying it again. It has a distinct flavor that is different and stronger than most meat. But, it is delicious, and you may find it becomes a favorite of yours. Knowing that it is filled with beneficial fats and nutrients may help you enjoy it more. And if you are trying to cut back on meat, it might be a stepping stone. It’s different enough from beef that you’ll change your diet and be less likely to eat beef as regularly and then give up meat altogether. It’s also good if you just want to switch to a healthier red meat. Of course, you have to pay attention to serving size and not eat lamb daily. But, as a weekly part of your diet, it can help your brain and health.
