Is pork or beef healthier?

Pork and beef are popular foods that provide a lot of protein, which can provide various benefits for people trying to lose weight or exercise.

Pork is leaner than beef - Photo: REUTERS

How nutritious are pork and beef?

Pork: is a source of protein, vitamin B12 and thiamin, as well as minerals especially iron needed to create healthy red blood cells that are well absorbed by the body.

Vitamin B12 helps maintain healthy blood and nerve cells, while thiamin (also known as vitamin B1) plays an important role in a healthy metabolism. Protein is important for satiety, tissue repair, and muscle growth. But according to the USDA , pork is considered a red meat.

Which cut of pork is the healthiest? Nutritionists recommend pork tenderloin, as it is the healthiest and tastiest cut. It is actually one of the leanest sources of protein, comparable to skinless chicken breast. This is a great option for those who want to control their calories but still maintain their protein intake.

Beef: also a good source of complete protein, vitamins and minerals. Beef is high in vitamin B12 and provides more iron than pork.

Nutritionists note that lean beef is one of the best sources of absorbable iron, which is especially important for menstruating women and athletes.

One serving can provide up to 15% of your daily iron needs. But when eating beef, pair it with foods rich in vitamin C to help your body absorb the iron. Good choices include yellow bell peppers and dark leafy greens, which provide both iron and vitamin C.

Beef is also a red meat. It is much higher in saturated fat so it is important to buy lean cuts, preferably sirloin.

Which one is healthier?

This depends on your needs and goals.

Pork and beef have similar nutritional compositions, but there are three key nutritional differences between the two meats.

Beef is a better source of iron and vitamin B12 than pork. For athletes, lean beef can be especially beneficial due to its high iron content, which aids in oxygen transport during exercise.

But pork is generally leaner than beef, so pork tenderloin may be a better choice for weight loss because it provides adequate nutrients but fewer calories.

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/thit-heo-hay-thit-bo-tot-hon-cho-suc-khoe-20250218091912186.htm