The Role of Pork in a Healthy Diet: Debunking the Myths

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Pork is often unfairly labeled as an unhealthy food, but in reality, it is a highly nutritious option that can play an important role in a balanced diet. Nutritionists recommend consuming lean meats, such as pork, 3–4 times a week, in portions of 100–125 grams, choosing lean cuts and trimming visible fat before cooking.

Pork provides high-quality protein of high biological value, along with essential minerals such as potassium, phosphorus, zinc, and iron, as well as B vitamins (B1, B3, B6, and B12). These nutrients contribute to a range of health benefits:

  • Support for muscle mass development;
  • Necessary for normal bone growth in children;
  • Aid in maintaining normal cholesterol levels when lean cuts are consumed;
  • Help meet daily nutritional requirements.

For example, pork loin contains only 2.65 grams of fat per 100 grams, which is even lower than a chicken thigh (2.8 grams per 100 grams). Moreover, about 70% of the fat in pork is subcutaneous, meaning it can be easily removed.

Pork also contains bioactive compounds with antioxidant and antihypertensive properties, including carnosine, anserine, coenzyme Q10, L-carnitine, taurine, glutathione, glutamine, creatine, creatinine, and active peptides that are generated during meat processing.

In conclusion, pork is not the enemy — it’s a valuable part of a balanced diet. By choosing the right cuts and cooking methods, consumers can enjoy its many health benefits without compromising their well-being.


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