Beef part of healthy diet

As a registered dietitian, I was disappointed by your coverage of the World Cancer Research Fund study. The story encouraged readers to “stay away from red meat” (11/1, A-1, “Findings link bad habits and cancer risk; A report warns about a lack of exercise, poor eating, excess body fat, and drinking alcohol”). The study indicated levels of red meat consumption up to 18 ounces per week was acceptable.

Scientific evidence has not shown that red meat causes cancer. However, research does support the value of the nutrients in lean beef such as protein, iron, zinc and B-vitamins in helping consumers maintain a healthy weight, build muscle and fuel physical activity. The American Dietetic Association recommends eating lean meat, such as beef, to maintain a healthful lifestyle because it’s a naturally rich source of nine essential nutrients.

Nothing in this report should change how people enjoy nutrient-rich beef as part of a healthy diet. Instead, consumers need to know the proven health benefits of eating red meat far outweigh what this report indicated.

Karen Hanson
Director of nutrition, Kansas Beef Council
Topeka

Comments

[CRD]

Unfortunately, the way we raise meat nowadays isn't. Concentrated animal feedlots foul our drinking water and stink up the environs for miles around.

[Tom K]

Eating meat is part of the natural order.

[BuddyT]

you got it Kate, one slice of German choclate coming up.....shoot its 4 hours to dinner.....

[Kate]

I'd take a much smaller steak if I could have a piece of chocolate cake afterwards.

[BuddyT]

Amen to that Mr. Mark, but you forgot the very dry martini before the Prime Rib!

[Mark K]

I'm sure what Ms. Hanson is saying is all well and good, but I don't even care. I'd rather live to 70 as a carnivore than 85 as a vegetarian. I am not a rabbit. There's nothing better than 16 or 20 ounces of medium-rare Prime Rib. Even if it eventually kills me.