Good Fat Bad Fat

“Good Fat”, “Bad Fat”

New studies show that products from grass-fed meats, eggs and dairy are clearly superior to products derived from feed-lot animals that are fattened with grains (primarily genetically modified corn).  Grass-fed products supply “good” fats that are beneficial to our diet as opposed to the “bad” fats in products that come from animals that have been artificially raised.  

Meat from cattle raised on pasture alone is lower in saturated fat, but higher in omega-3 fats, monounsaturated fats, and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), the “good fats” which plays vital roles in every cell and system in your body.  Meat, eggs and dairy products from pastured animals are also richer in vitamins E and B and beta-carotene.

• Omega-3s are formed in the chloroplasts of green leaves and algae, the natural diet of cattle and poultry.  Omega-3s vanish in feed-lot cattle and in chickens that are housed indoors and deprived of greens.  People whose diets contain Omega-3s are less likely to have high blood pressure or irregular heartbeat and have a reduced risk of cancer and symptoms of ADHD and depression.

• Monounsaturated fats contain vitamins A, D and E antioxidants that promote good circulation, bone and muscle health and prevent buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries.  Monounsaturated fats contribute to lower blood cholesterol levels that make us feel full allowing us to stick with a healthy eating plan.

• CLA may be one of our most potent defenses against cancer; preserves muscle tissue and reduces body fat in overweight people. 

• Grass-fed animals are higher in protein and lower in calories than grain-fed animal meat.

• Products from pastured animals do not contain traces of added hormones, antibiotics or other drugs.

RECOMMENDATION:  Look for products that are labeled “pastured”; or better yet, purchase from your local farmer, farmer’s markets or natural food stores.