Those who eat goat meat would describe it as one of the best tasting meat and, indeed, it is. Not just for the fact that it tastes great on its own but also because it adds flavour to any dish it is in. Goat meat remains a popular choice for many, compared to meat like beef or even chicken. A lot of Nigerians are familiar with goat meat pepper soup. Goat meat pepper soup is also known as ngwo-ngwo, and is one of the best foods that brings out the tastiness of goat meat.
Despite its taste, goat meat is regarded as a very healthy meat option, better than beef or chicken. This is because it contains fewer calories, less fat, and lower cholesterol levels, making it very good for the body. As you may already know, not every meat is good meat due to their fat content and because they increase bad cholesterol levels in the body. But goat meat is low in everything bad and rich in everything good. It is very rich in protein and contains other nutrients like iron, potassium, thiamine, selenium, zinc, niacin, and other vitamins, such as vitamin B12.
So here are some of the health benefits of eating goat meat.Â
1. Low In Calories
The first thing worth noting about goat meat is that it is low in calories. Compared to other meats, like pork, chicken, and beef, goat meat is relatively low in calories. This means that eating goat meat would not affect your weight. This makes it a great option for those who are watching their weight as it prevents obesity and other risks that come with it. 100 grams of goat meat contains about 143 calories, which is significantly lower when compared to other meats.
2. Low In Fat And Cholesterol
Goat meat also has low levels of fat and cholesterol. This makes it very safe for the heart as it reduces the risks of heart problems, which are often triggered by high levels of bad cholesterol in the body. It is also low in saturated fat which would lower the risk of inflammation. It is high in unsaturated fat, the good fat, which would increase the HDL, which is the good kind of cholesterol, in the blood. One study found out that unlike other meats, eating goat meat does not cause an increase in blood pressure.
3. Rich In Protein
Goat meat is a good source of protein. What makes it very good is that you get to gain all the essential amino acids in the protein without consuming a lot of calories.Â
4. Rich In Iron
Another good thing about eating goat meat is that it is very rich in iron, which is an essential nutrient. This helps with the production of haemoglobin, which boosts the health and circulation of the blood. This makes it great for anyone suffering from anaemia, a disease caused by a lack of iron. That is why it is advised that pregnant women and women who are menstruating eat goat meat.
5. Low Sodium Content
Goat meat also has a low sodium content, unlike other meat. Sodium has been linked as the cause of hypertension and high blood pressure, and it is recommended that you consume foods that are low in sodium, such as goat meat.Â
6. Rich In Calcium
Another mineral that can be found in goat meat is calcium. Goat meat has a very rich calcium content, which would help maintain your bones and teeth, keeping them stronger.Â
7. Packed with Vitamin B12
Goat meat comprises of a lot of Vitamin B12 which is known to help keep the body’s nerve and blood cells healthy. Vitamin B12 is also said to help you get healthy skin.
Bottom Line
Goat meat is one of the healthiest meats you can eat. It is rich in protein, calcium and iron. It is also low in fat, cholesterol and contains fewer calories, compared to other meats. The health benefits of eating goat meat are plenty, and can be very beneficial for you.
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Collins Nwokolo is a human physiologist, writer and health enthusiast. He loves writing helpful articles on health and fitness, which he enjoys sharing with everyone.
