Beyond tasting great, meat is the best source of protein we can consume. Proteins from meat are considered complete proteins, meaning that they contain all of the amino acids our bodies need. But did you know that meat is rich in other nutrients that our bodies need, as well?
So, what vitamins are present in the meat we eat?
Meat, especially pork, is high in thiamin, niacin, riboflavin, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12. Each of these vitamins is essential for our bodies to function as they should. They are all B complex vitamins, and, as such, they help the body convert food into energy. But they each have other important functions, as well.
Thiamin
The body uses thiamin to assist in glucose metabolism. Thiamin also helps in heart, nerve, and muscle function.
Niacin
Niacin promotes digestive system, nervous system, and skin health. Many times, it is part of a multivitamin that you can take, but you can get the amount your body needs by eating meat and other foods that contain it naturally.
Riboflavin
Riboflavin is important for cell health and growth. It acts as an antioxidant, attacking harmful particles in the body known as free radicals. Free radicals are harmful to our cells. Antioxidants like riboflavin can help to reduce and prevent some of the damage caused by free radicals.
B6
Vitamin B6 plays an important role in brain development and health and may improve your mood. It is also needed for the body to produce red blood cells.
B12
Vitamin B12 is also needed for blood cell production and brain health. It is essential for cell metabolism, the production of DNA, and nerve function. It is found almost exclusively in food produced by animals.
Each of these vitamins plays a crucial role in helping the body to function as it should. Many people will take multivitamins in order to ensure they are consuming enough of these vitamins. But meat provides these nutrients for us.
As with anything in life, there can be too much of a good thing when it comes to eating meat. But as part of a balanced diet, meat is really healthy for you, giving you the nutrients you need for your body to function as it should.