Why Ostrich Meat is the Healthier Choice

When it comes to healthy eating, we often hear the same things – eat more fruits and vegetables, choose lean meats, and avoid processed foods. But have you ever considered trying ostrich meat? While it may not be a staple in your diet, it’s worth considering as a healthier choice than other meats. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of ostrich meat and why you should consider making the switch.

Low in Fat and Calories

One of the biggest advantages of ostrich meat over other meats is its low fat content. In fact, ostrich meat is the leanest red meat available. Compared to beef, ostrich meat contains 40% less fat and fewer calories. For example, a 3.5-ounce serving of lean beef contains around 250 calories and 15 grams of fat, while the same serving size of ostrich meat has only 130 calories and 2 grams of fat. This makes ostrich meat an ideal choice for those looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy diet.

High in Protein

Ostrich meat is also an excellent source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue. A 3.5-ounce serving of ostrich meat contains around 28 grams of protein, which is more than beef, chicken, and pork. Protein is also known to help you feel full and satisfied, which can prevent overeating and snacking between meals.

Low in Cholesterol

High cholesterol levels can increase your risk of heart disease and other health problems. Ostrich meat has a much lower cholesterol content than other meats. A 3.5-ounce serving of ostrich meat contains only 60 milligrams of cholesterol, while the same serving of beef has around 85 milligrams. This makes ostrich meat a much better option for those who are watching their cholesterol levels.

Rich in Vitamins and Minerals

Ostrich meat is not only low in fat, calories, and cholesterol, but it’s also rich in vitamins and minerals. Ostrich meat is an excellent source of iron, which is essential for transporting oxygen throughout the body. It also contains high levels of zinc, which is essential for immune system function. Ostrich meat is also a good source of vitamin B12, which is important for nervous system function and the production of red blood cells.

Low in Sodium

Many meats are high in sodium, which can increase your risk of high blood pressure and other health problems. Ostrich meat is a much lower sodium option, which makes it a healthier choice. A 3.5-ounce serving of ostrich meat contains only around 85 milligrams of sodium, which is much lower than beef, pork, or chicken.

Why Ostrich Meat is Better Than Beef

While beef is a popular choice for many meat-eaters, it’s not always the healthiest option. Here are a few reasons why ostrich meat is a better choice than beef:

• Lower fat and calorie content: As mentioned earlier, ostrich meat is much lower in fat and calories than beef, making it a better choice for those watching their weight.
• Lower cholesterol content: Ostrich meat has a much lower cholesterol content than beef, which makes it a healthier option for heart health.
• Better for the environment: Ostriches require less land, water, and food to produce than cows, making them a more sustainable and eco-friendly option.
• Less hormones and antibiotics: Ostriches are not given hormones or antibiotics like cows are, which means you don’t have to worry about ingesting these substances when you eat ostrich meat.

Ways to Cook and Prepare Ostrich Meat

Ostrich meat can be cooked and prepared in a variety of ways, just like beef or chicken. Here are a few ideas:

• Grilled ostrich steak: Ostrich steaks can be grilled just like beef steaks. For best results, marinate the steak in your favorite seasoning or sauce for a few hours before grilling.
• Ostrich burgers: Ostrich burgers are a tasty and healthy alternative to beef burgers. Mix ground ostrich meat with your favorite burger seasonings and cook on the grill or on the stove.
• Ostrich stir-fry: Ostrich meat can be used in stir-fry dishes just like chicken or beef. Cut the meat into thin strips and sauté with your favorite vegetables and sauce.
• Ostrich chili: Ostrich meat can be used in chili recipes just like ground beef. Brown the meat in a pot and add your favorite chili ingredients, such as tomatoes, beans, and spices.

Conclusion

While ostrich meat may not be a common choice for many meat-eaters, it’s definitely worth considering as a healthier and more sustainable alternative to beef or other meats. Ostrich meat is low in fat, calories, and cholesterol, and high in protein, vitamins, and minerals. It’s also better for the environment and contains fewer hormones and antibiotics than beef. With its unique taste and texture, ostrich meat is a delicious and healthy choice for anyone looking to make a positive change in their diet.