You might not want to know exactly what went into the last hamburger you ate. Problems with industrialized agriculture and a focus on efficiency at the expense of quality have left many people disconnected from the true origins of their food. One key issue with conventional beef is the unhealthy ratio of fats in the meat and potential exposure to pesticides from genetically modified crops used as feed. However, there is an alternative with numerous health benefits: grass-fed beef.
The Superior Quality of Grass-Fed Beef
Grass-fed beef is the result of raising cattle properly, with a focus on the animals’ well-being and the quality of the meat. Grass-fed beef is leaner, contains more vitamins A and E, and has higher levels of three cancer-fighting antioxidants glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and catalase.
Grass-fed beef also contains a healthier balance of essential fatty acids than grain-fed beef, meaning that it does not raise cholesterol or contribute to health problems like grain-fed beef. For example, grass-fed beef contains higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids, like DHA, which are vital to brain health. A diet high in these types of omega-3s has been found to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and lower instances of depression. Another fatty acid called CLA is two to three times more prevalent in grass-fed beef than conventional beef. CLA acts as an antioxidant and can protect against heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
When it comes to nourishing our bodies, grass-fed beef offers a better balance of essential fats and nutrients that support our immune, nervous, and gastrointestinal systems.
How to Find Healthier Beef
Now that you know the benefits of grass-fed beef, here are some ways to find this higher-quality meat:
- Check your local grocery store: Look for organic grass-fed beef or 100% organic beef, which means the cows were not fed pesticide-laden grains, given steroids, or treated with antibiotics. While not grass-fed, this is a better alternative to conventional beef.
- Visit your local farm: Head to LocalHarvest.org, Eatwild.com, EatWellGuide.org, or search on Craigslist and Google to find farms near you. Many farms offer products directly to consumers, have buying clubs, or participate in community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs.
- Seek out a farmer’s market or health food store: Many farmers bring their products to local markets, and health-food stores often stock local, farm-fresh food.
- Shop online: There are plenty of grass-fed meat producers who sell their products online. Some examples include American Farmers Network, Blackwing Quality Meats, and La Cense Beef.
By seeking out grass-fed beef, you can create a healthier and more sustainable food system for yourself and others around you. It’s worth the effort and investment.
