A sensible diet includes animal food sources such as steak and eggs. Steak and eggs are high-quality proteins that offer additional nutrients. Steak is beef, and provides ample amounts of iron, zinc, B vitamins and dietary fat. Eggs contribute vitamin E, riboflavin, folic acid, choline and essential fatty acids. Speak with your doctor before starting a diet that is high in protein.
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Function of Protein
According to the American Dietetic Association, protein is essential to the growth and repair of every cell in your body. This includes your muscles, skin, hair, nails and bones. Protein also produces antibodies, insulin and other hormones that play a role in metabolism. Protein is made up of essential amino acids. Foods that contain all the essential amino acids are considered “complete proteins.” Egg, steak and other animal proteins are all complete proteins. Be aware that a high protein diet can pose a serious threat to your health. Too much protein in your diet can add pressure and stress to your kidneys and liver, resulting in disease that affects these organs.
Types of Steak
According to the American Dietetic Association, steak is an excellent source of iron, zinc and vitamin B-12, which are harder to obtain from other food sources. Steak can be part of a low-fat diet if you choose lean cuts and eat small portions that are approximately 4 oz. Trim all visible fat before cooking to reduce the amount of saturated fat and calories. Types of steak include T-bone, tenderloin, strip, porterhouse, club, rib-eye and sirloin.
Function of Omega-3 Fatty Acids
“The 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth” says steaks and eggs that come from grass-fed animals have a higher concentration of polyunsaturated fats called omega-3 fatty acids. This is due to their natural diet of grass, worms and other insects. Omega-3 fatty acids play an important role in preventing diseases such as heart disease, cancer and high blood pressure. Dr. Jonny Bowden also claims omega-3 fatty acids are essential for brain health. It can prevent depression, attention deficit disorder, schizophrenia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Function of Choline
Eggs contain significant amounts of choline, which is often categorized as a B vitamin. Choline is necessary in your diet for its various functions. According to the American Dietetic Association, choline protects your liver, maintains cell membrane structures and produces neurotransmitter cells. An adequate amount of choline in your diet can help to prevent cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s disease, memory loss, high cholesterol, cirrhosis and certain types of cancer.
Considerations for Steak and Eggs
Steak, eggs and other high-protein animal foods contain a large amount of saturated fats and cholesterol. According to “Foods That Harm Foods That Heal,” these substances are known to increase your chances of atherosclerosis, heart disease and obesity. Eat well-trimmed lean beef that decreases the amount of calories and fat in your steak. Most saturated fat is found in the yolks of eggs, so consider switching to just egg whites instead.