Is Beef Jerky Good For You?
When you think of beef jerky, what comes to mind? For lots of us, it's a convenient, protein-packed snack perfect for road trips, hikes, or just a quick bite during a busy day. But is beef jerky healthy? Let's dive into the nutritional benefits and help you make an informed decision.
Why Beef Jerky Is Good For You?
1. High Protein
You probably already know about the high protein content in your average beef jerky. It's easily one of the best high protein snacks you can find in a supermarket. While some are better than others, you can find as much as 45 grams of protein in a single bag of beef jerky. This makes it a great healthy snack to use to get all your protein in.
2. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
If you get yourself a high quality beef jerky, expect to find all the nutritional benefits you usually get from beef. This means big hits of of iron, zinc, and B vitamins, which are crucial for energy production, immune function, and overall health.
3. Low in Sugar
Because it gets its deliciousness from beef, a good beef jerky doesn't need any added sugar - it's tasty enough. Not something you can say for a lot of other on-the-go snacks!
How Beef Jerky Is NOT Good For You?
Sorry to burst your bubble. But... there IS a bit more to it. Here's some of the facts:
The Added Preservatives...
A lot of the cheap, mainstream beef jerky you'll run across is loaded with artificial preservatives, like potassium sorbate. These can take away from the health benefits and cause you to take in ingredients you might not want to be eating.
The Added Sugar...
The same goes for sugar: watch out. Cheap beef jerky is usually loaded with sugary sauces, or just plain old sugar, which sometimes causes the snack to have more sugar than protein! It's important to read the nutrition facts on your beef jerky bag carefully.
Making The Right Choices
Not all beef jerky is made equal: there's the cheap, mince-meat, mass-produced beef jerky, that's loaded with sugar, artificial preservatives, and not a lot of protein. And then, there's something like Gymrat Jerky.
A beef jerky made for healthy people: high in protein, no added sugar, and natural ingredients only. If you want to make sure the beef jerky you're taking in is actually good for you, then check it out.
So, whether you're looking for a quick post-workout snack or a travel-friendly option, beef jerky can fit into a healthy lifestyle when chosen and consumed wisely. Next time you reach for a bag of the good stuff, you'll know exactly how to make the healthiest choice for your needs.