Wagyu Beef: Is it Healthy?

Wagyu beef is the world-renowned Japanese cattle breed that has taken the global food scene by storm. Wagyu is praised for its high-quality and juicy character. The breed has been selectively bred over generations to produce large amounts of marbled fat found in the muscle; this is one of the trademarks of this luscious meat.

This tender meat is beloved, but is Wagyu beef healthy? In this article, we’ll explore the health benefits of Wagyu and see if it’s worth the hype.

Beef is Healthy

Regardless of the breed, beef in general has high amounts of protein, iron, zinc, vitamin B12, and riboflavin. These are important nutrients that contribute positively to one’s overall well-being. As healthy as beef is, eating it in moderation is the most effective way to benefit from its nutritional properties.

Protein

Protein is an important amino acid. This nutrient is a building block for good health. Our bodies use amino acids to help build and repair muscles and grow and repair cells and bones. They are also key players in making hormones and enzymes. Proteins are also an important energy source.

Iron

Red meat is a rich source of iron. This mineral plays an essential role in the healthy development and growth of the body. The human body uses iron to make haemoglobin and myoglobin, proteins found in red blood cells, which carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body and the muscles. This means that iron helps to oxygenate the blood in our body, which aids in cell and tissue repair. It also converts blood sugar to energy in our body.

Zinc

Zinc plays a crucial role in ensuring that your immune system and metabolism function properly. Beef is a rich source of zinc. The nutrient is important for wound healing and increases your sense of taste and smell. Zinc also effectively reduces inflammation and reduces the risk of age-related diseases.

Vitamin B12

Beef is an excellent source of Vitamin B12. A grilled piece of steak provides approximately 467% of the daily requirements of Vitamin B12. This key nutrient is an important component in creating red blood cells and therefore is effective in preventing anaemia.

Riboflavin

Riboflavin is an antioxidant that fights free radicals. It supports the development and proper functioning of cells in your body. It also assists in the process of changing food into energy for the body. Beef and red organ meats are high in riboflavin.

Wagyu Beef is Healthy

Now that we have a better understanding of the health benefits of mainstream beef, what makes Wagyu beef special?

For generations, the genetic makeup of Wagyu has been fine-tuned to produce significantly high amounts of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), and polyunsaturated fats, in conjunction with the other health qualities of beef in general. Normal beef contains minimal amounts of omega-3s.

These nutrients are powerhouses in their own right. They powerfully reduce inflammation and improve immune function. Omega-3 fatty acids are an essential nutrient that aids brain development and proper growth. They are also linked to fighting certain strains of cancer. Polyunsaturated fats are also known as the “healthy fats” and fight cardiovascular disease.

Is Wagyu Healthier Than Regular Beef?

Yes! Wagyu beef is healthier than regular beef. Should Wagyu beef be eaten in excess? Absolutely not. As with any food, balance is key, especially when eating red meat.

Eating meat in excess will increase your body fat percentage and negatively affect your body in the long run. To properly reap the benefits of Wagyu and regular beef, make sure to enjoy the delicacy with a balanced diet.

Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA)

Conjugated linoleic acid is found in high amounts in Wagyu cattle. CLA lowers cholesterol levels and reduces the risk of certain cancers and Alzheimer’s disease. CLA has also been found to reduce body fat deposits and improve the functioning of the immune system.

Amino Acids

Wagyu contains all the essential amino acids. Oleic acid is an omega-9 fatty acid found in Wagyu. It’s known to prevent heart disease and is the principal component of olive oil. Omega-6 is great for fighting cancer and diabetes and improving energy. Omega-3 assists in lowering blood pressure and fights joint inflammation and dementia.

Polyunsaturated Fats

These nutrients are also found in high quantities in Wagyu. They fight heart disease and the threat of having a stroke. Wagyu is high in protein, iron, and zinc, making it a nutritious addition to any diet. The presence of polyunsaturated fat makes it a healthier choice for heart health.

Besides the delicious, succulent taste of the meat, Wagyu beef has been proven to improve digestion. Incredibly, eating Wagyu in moderation has been shown to benefit the body in the same way a fillet of salmon or olive oil does.

Is wagyu beef healthy?

At Blake’s Fine Food, we love good food. We take great pride in offering the finest and most delectable cuts of Wagyu and other premium meats and seafood. Our products are carefully curated by local producers and globally recognised suppliers. We are a trusted supplier of fine ingredients, supplying some of the top establishments in the Western Cape. For more information, don’t hesitate to visit our website and contact us.