Although beef jerky may not seem like a healthy food, it can be useful if you are trying to lose weight. Beef jerky is made by dehydrating meat, a technique originally used to preserve it for long periods of time. The website JerkyFAQ.com notes that the dehydration process helps prevent the growth of fungus and bacteria, making it an ideal preservation method.
High Protein Content
Beef jerky is high in protein, which may aid in weight loss. A 1 oz. serving of Jack Link's beef jerky contains 15 g of protein, a nutrient that helps build muscle and other body tissues. Research from the May 2004 issue of the "Journal of the American College of Nutrition" suggests that high protein diets may help you lose more weight than dieting with a traditional diet, because your body burns more calories digesting protein than other nutrients, and protein is more filling than other nutrients.
Low Carbohydrate Content
Beef jerky is low in carbohydrates, with 3 g per 1 oz. serving of Jack Link's brand beef jerky. Although you can lose weight while consuming a diet containing carbohydrates, some research indicates that low-carbohydrate diets may be particularly effective. A study from the July 2008 issue of the "New England Journal of Medicine" found that participants on low-carbohydrate diets lost more weight than those on low-fat diets.
Low Fat Content
Beef jerky is low in fat, which may be beneficial for weight loss. Each 1 oz. serving of Jack Link's brand beef jerky contains .5 g of fat. Because fat is high in calories, consuming low-fat foods can help you maintain a calorie deficit. However, you shouldn't neglect fat completely; MedlinePlus explains that dietary fat helps your body absorb vitamins and can help you feel full.
Low Calorie Content
Beef jerky is relatively low in calories, which makes it beneficial for weight loss. A 1 oz. serving of Jack Link's beef jerky contains 80 calories, which provides just 4 percent of the daily suggested intake of 2,000 calories.
Note that exact nutritional characteristics of beef jerky vary by brand and flavor.
References
- JerkyFAQ: What is Jerky?
- LIVESTRONG.COM MyPlate: Calories in Jack Link's Beef Jerky
- "Journal of the American College of Nutrition"; The Effects of High Protein Diets on Thermogenesis, Satiety and Weight Loss: A Critical Review; T.L. Halton, F.B. Hu; May 2004
- "New England Journal of Medicine"; Weight Loss with a Low-Carbohydrate, Mediterranean, or Low-Fat Diet; I. Shai, et al.; July 2008
- MedlinePlus: Dietary Fats
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