We’ve all been told that lean meat is the key to a healthy and fit lifestyle. But the question is, why?

To start, meat is a source of protein which helps improve muscle growth. It is rich with minerals and vitamins such as iron and vitamin B12.

According to the experts at House Call Doctor, leaner meats also have lower saturated fats and calories per serve. They are also considered to be a safe source of protein.

What are the leanest meats?

• Bison:

This type of meat known as game meat, is usually lower in fat as the animal mainly eats grass. A standard 3.5 ounce serving of bison only contains 2.4 grams of fat and 143 calories.

• Venison:

Venison is also a game meat which has 3.2 grams of fat and 158 calories for a serving of 3.5 ounces. Sometimes with this lean meat, it can get tough. So, cooking techniques can include marinating, cooking on a low heat or putting a thin coat of oil on the meat before baking or frying.

• Skinless chicken and turkey:

This type of poultry tends to be leaner without the skin. This is because most of the fat is found in the skin of chickens or turkeys. Usually, a light meat is leaner than a darker meat. So, roasted chicken breast has 165 calories and 3.6 grams of fat for a serving of 3.5 ounces. It’s important to note that breasts are leaner than thighs.

• Pork:

The amount of fat in pork depends entirely on the cut. Pork can even outrank chicken if the layer of fat is removed. The leanest cuts of pork include top-loin chops, rib chops, sirloin roast, centre-loin chops and pork tenderloin. A roasted pork tenderloin has 3.5 grams of fat and 143 calories for 3.5 ounce serving.

Are there dangers in lean meat?

There is a connection between antibiotics being used in poultry farming and people getting infections which are resistant to antibiotics.

Lean meats also are a moderate source of the organic compound purines. Even though purines are beneficial to the body, they can increase the chance of gout in some people.

There is also a danger of when meat is not cooked properly. Poor storage, handling, and cooking can result in illness.

So, as with any food, it’s important to eat lean meats in moderation.