As we all strive to eat healthier and more nutritious foods, the great news is that venison offers a delicious and healthy alternative to beef and other red meats.
Venison meat is naturally lean, rich in flavour and low in calories but venison is also a versatile meat which can be enjoyed as steaks, roasts, sausages, stews, meatballs, burgers, casseroles, stirs fries and more.
Here are some of the amazing nutritional facts about venison which are very good to know.
High in Protein, Low in Fat
Venison is an excellent source of protein because it is both rich in protein but low in fat. Not only is it a low fat meat, but levels of saturated fat in venison are much lower than in other red meats.
In 100g of venison there’s approximately 24g of protein. Venison (like all animal products) is also what we call a complete protein, containing all of the essential amino acids our bodies can’t make on their own. The importance of protein goes beyond growth and repair and includes things like supporting our immune system, supporting hormone production and helping to build crucial enzymes.
Reducing saturated fat intake is something most of us should be considering. Being lower in saturated fat than other red meats, venison makes a healthier alternative for red meats like beef, helping to reduce your saturated fat intake.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Venison is rich in essential vitamins and minerals that are good for our health, including iron, phosphorus, potassium and zinc, plus vitamins B6 and B12, riboflavin, niacin and thiamin.
Venison is packed with a whole range of B vitamins including B12 and B6. B vitamins in general are important for producing energy and can influence everything from our hair to our digestion.
Iron is an essential nutrient and one of the most common nutrient deficiencies in the UK. Venison is a brilliant source of haem iron, a type of iron which is generally absorbed very efficiently by our bodies. Plant-based sources contain a type of iron called non-haem iron, which is generally absorbed at a lower rate than haem iron. Eating venison is a superb way to top up your iron levels.
Venison is packed with Zinc
Zinc is another essential nutrient. The richest source of zinc is an oyster, with just two oysters reaching average daily requirements. Venison is one of the top sources of zinc following oysters, with 100g of venison providing roughly 32% of average daily intake requirements. With zinc being an important nutrient for our immune system, for keeping our skin healthy and also for reproductive health – zinc-rich venison has many health benefits.
Zero Carbs and Low Calorie
Venison meat is free of carbohydrates and contains fewer calories than beef or even chicken breast.
Low Sodium
Venison is naturally low in sodium, so it’s better for your heart than other red meats.
So, as you will see, venison really does deserve its virtuous description. It is sustainable, packed with healthy nutritional benefits, not to mention that it is versatile and absolutely delicious. What’s not to love?
Commentaires