Beef jerky in its many guises across the globe is often seen as no more than a tasty, if not somewhat unhealthy treat. To suggest that beef jerky is good for the mind is sure to elicit a storm of protest from many health conscious red meat detractors. The truth is a little more complex though, and this desiccated delight is often unfairly maligned.
Being light, protein rich and easily stored for protracted periods, beef jerky was an essential staple for pioneering men and women. From the Boer Commandos of South Africa to the rugged mountain men of North America, dried beef was a saddlebag standard. And with good reason.
People are eating beef jerky today for more than just the taste of it, it has become an essential diet supplement for both dieters and trainers.
Beef is a rich source of protein, minerals, vitamins and amino aids and, as long as lean cuts are used, a valuable and nutritious food source even by today’s health conscious standards. Beef jerky can contain lots of salt but products can be sought out that either contain acceptable levels or are devoid of undesirable additives.
Now, back to the original question of whether or not beef jerky is good brain food. One of the most critical neurological process that take place in our brains all the time is the transfer of impulses between the neurons. The vehicles that facilitate the transfer of these messages are neurotransmitters.
Any imbalance in our neurotransmitter levels can have disastrous consequences such as Alzheimer’s, Schizophrenia, clinical depression and Parkinson’s disease. This is why maintaining an adequate intake of high quality protein is essential for a healthy brain. Enter stage left – beef jerky.
The growth, development and normal functioning of our brains are also dependant on the energy and nutrients produced from minerals and vitamins. Beef is an excellent source of several of these essential vitamins and minerals.
Brain functions such as memory in the aged are boosted by the presence of antioxidants. Several of the vitamins found in abundance in beef are powerful antioxidants and are therefore important in maintaining both general and neurological health.
Vitamins also play an important role as antioxidants and can aid in the preservation of brain functions such as memory, particularly in the aged. Beef Jerky contains good levels of both of these components and can thus be beneficial in maintaining their levels in our bodies.
Well, there you have it. Beef jerky is good for the mind – and the rest of your body too. Several successful beef jerky diets doing the rounds show that it is even possible to maintain good nutritional and loose weight with beef jerky which is good news all around for jerky fans.
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