Jerky and beef sticks are popular snack foods, but are they a healthy choice? The answer is surprising. Natural beef jerky is a great choice for meeting daily protein needs and it’s good low-carb food that boosts energy. Here are some helpful tips for choosing the best healthy beef jerky.
Choose Beef Jerky with Low Amounts of Saturated Fats
A diet high in saturated fats raises one’s cholesterol and is linked to heart disease. That being said, not all saturated fats are bad. The goal is to eat a balanced diet that isn’t overly high in saturated fats. If beef jerky is a favorite snack, choose a product that’s low in saturated fat. Choose jerky products that have no more than 5%-6% of saturated fat.
Skip Beef Jerky that Has MSG
Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is added to many foods. It’s usually added to foods along with nitrates. MSG and nitrates are not the best combinations for a healthy lifestyle. While it’s okay to have foods with MSG once in a while, it’s best not to make it a habit. If beef jerky is one’s go-to snack, choose a natural jerky that doesn’t have additives like MSG.
The best beef sticks meet the following criteria:
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Low-sodium
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Have no added sugar
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Contain simple ingredients
Jerky that’s cooked simply without being over-processed and made from few ingredients is the healthiest way to enjoy this flavorful snack. For the best healthy beef jerky, check out Topanga’s Finest online to view their offerings.
