Many people are switching to elk meat nowadays. They find it cleaner, leaner, and a more sustainable substitute to beef. However, is elk meat healthy or another fad of a wild meal? Let’s dig in.
Leaner than beef and rich in protein
The reason why people are switching to elk is that it has a great nutritional profile. Elk meat is usually leaner than beef, per pound. It contains a much lower amount of fat and calories.
One 3-ounce serving of elk has:
- Approximately 22 g of protein
- About 2 g of fat
Compare it to the same amount of beef. This has approximately 9 g of fat.
What does that mean for you? You get a high-protein meal that promotes:
- Muscle development
- Energy
- Metabolism.
You get this without the bulkiness and extra weight of red meats. It is particularly helpful when you want to:
- Eat clean
- Control your weight
- Develop lean muscle.
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Mostly organic by nature
A large number of elk are free-range animals that feed on native grasses, shrubs, and herbs. Some are wild-harvested while others are raised on organic feed. Essentially, elk do not depend on antibiotics and hormones. That is why their meat is a good choice. It is especially ideal for those who want to consume more naturally sourced protein.
Since the elk are also nearer to nature, the food they feed on also adds to their nutritional value. They are a good source of:
- Iron
- Zinc
- Phosphorus
- Vitamins B.
All of these minerals are important in maintaining the health of your blood. They also significantly boost your energy levels.
The flavor of the wild
Elk meat can be very different from beef. It is a little sweet and very tender. Elk meat Alberta has a mild, slightly sweet flavor. That reflects the region’s clean environment and natural forage. Some people prefer it to beef because it is lighter but more delicious.
There is not much to adapt to when cooking elk, either. It is lean. Thus cooks quicker. You should not cook it for too long. This will help to retain its tenderness and juiciness. It can become part of your weekly meal through:
- Grilling a steak
- Making into burgers
- Slow-cooking into an elk stew.
A healthy substitute for red meat
This is where elk takes the lead. It:
- Is low in saturated fat
- Has more omega-3 fatty acids.
The combination is beneficial to heart health. It promotes good cholesterol levels and reduces inflammation.
Has the doctor told you to reduce red meat? Elk meat is a great compromise. Everything remains delicious and satisfying without the associated cardiovascular issues.
The bottom line
So, is elk meat healthy? Absolutely. It is a low-calorie and nutritious substitute for conventional red meat. When you eat it, you enjoy the advantages of:
- Premium protein
- Vital vitamins
- Clean sourcing
- A tasty and versatile meal.
Concerned about what you are putting on your plate? Want to know how it was raised and harvested? Then adding elk to your menu is a healthy option for your body.
