When it comes to beef, it's gotten a lot of flack over the years. So here are the biggest four misleading myths about beef and what the science really has to say about it.
Beef. It’s not just delicious—it’s a nutritional powerhouse that has been tragically misunderstood. You’ve likely heard the whispers: “Beef causes heart disease. Beef gives you cancer. Beef is wrecking the planet.” But what if I told you that much of this is overblown…way overblown? Let’s break it down, one juicy myth at a time.
Myth #1: Beef Causes Heart Disease
We’ve all got that relative, “Uncle Jack,” or know someone close to us, who was told to cut out beef after his heart attack. The finger was pointed squarely at beef’s saturated fat content. For decades, mainstream health authorities, like the American Heart Association, have told us to limit beef consumption.
But the science is evolving—quickly. A growing body of research, including a 2020 study, reveals that saturated fat isn’t the heart disease villain it’s been made out to be. In fact, the researchers concluded that unprocessed red meat isn’t associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD).
Here’s the kicker: “There is no robust evidence that arbitrary upper limits on saturated fat consumption in the United States will prevent CVD or reduce mortality.” Translation: You can enjoy that steak guilt-free.
So next time someone tells you beef is bad for your heart, feel free to educate them. Or, better yet, offer them a slice of prime rib and watch their heart sing…while drooling for another bite.
Myth #2: Beef Causes Cancer
The mainstream narrative has long warned us that eating red meat can lead to cancer. But as with many of these claims, this myth stems from correlation, not causation. Most of the studies connecting red meat to cancer come from observational data, often failing to account for other factors, like unhealthy habits.
Let’s be real—how many burger lovers are also scarfing down fries, soda, and other junk?
A groundbreaking 2019 review analyzed data from over 5.7 million participants and concluded that recommendations to limit red meat based on cancer concerns were bogus.
Even better, another 2019 study found that the supposed cancer risk from red and processed meat is “very small” and that the certainty of evidence is “low to very low.” In other words, this myth is cooked. So, go ahead and fire up the grill.
Myth #3: Vegetarians Live Longer
“If you want to live longer, ditch the meat,” they say. But let’s put this old tale to rest once and for all. Yes, some studies show vegetarians live longer, but they often fail to correct for the fact that many vegetarians are more health-conscious in general. They might skip alcohol, avoid processed foods, and exercise more. So, is it the lack of meat, or the lack of Twinkies?
More recent studies, like this one, paint a different picture. The more meat people eat, the longer they live. Take Hong Kong as an example. They have the highest per capita meat consumption and the highest life expectancy. Coincidence? I think not.
The truth is, beef is packed with the nutrients we need to thrive—vitamin B12, heme iron, zinc, and protein, to name a few. So, unless you’re committed to living off tofu (good luck with that), consider beef your nutritional ally in the quest for longevity.
Myth #4: Beef is Destroying the Planet
The latest attack on beef isn’t about your health—it’s about the health of the planet. Climate change advocates argue that beef production is a leading cause of environmental degradation. But let’s break this down.
According to the EPA, beef production accounts for just 1.9% of total U.S. emissions. Compare that to transportation, energy production, and industrial pollution, and suddenly the cow isn’t the climate culprit.
And here’s something most people don’t know: properly raised cattle can be a net positive for the environment. When managed through regenerative farming practices, cattle help sequester carbon, improve soil health, and restore degraded lands. Check out this analysis on how carbon-negative grass-fed beef production is possible.
And while we’re at it, let’s talk about methane. Sure, cattle produce methane, but it’s worth remembering that 60 million bison once roamed North America, belching methane all the while. Nature has been handling methane for millennia.
So, should we be swapping our burgers for Beyond Burgers? Absolutely not. The real issue is monocrop agriculture, which strips the soil, uses tons of chemicals, and leaves fields barren. Beef, when raised right, is a powerful part of a healthy, regenerative ecosystem.
Conclusion: Eat Your Beef and Thrive
In a world full of conflicting information, it’s time to put these beef myths to bed. The truth is, beef is nutrient-dense, supports your heart, doesn’t give you cancer, and—when raised properly—can actually benefit the planet.
So go ahead—savor that steak, make those burgers (without the bun), all while knowing, you’re nourishing your body and respecting the earth. You’ve earned it.
Be well.
SD