Healthy Eating of Meats

Meat is an essential part of a satisfying diet, for many people. However, meat can be unhealthy. Only meat and animal-based products contain both saturated fats and cholesterol. According to the American Heart Association, a diet high in saturated fat and cholesterol can lead to negative health effects, such as heart disease.

Poultry

Poultry is generally a low-fat, low-cholesterol and low-calorie source of protein. Chicken or turkey can be used as a lower fat and cholesterol substitute for red-meat dishes. Red meat is usually high in fat and cholesterol. A turkey burger is much lower in fat and calories than a conventional hamburger, and a grilled chicken sandwich is another healthier alternative.

Fish

Fish is a healthy source of protein that can calm your meat craving. The American Heart Association recommends eating fish at two meals a week for better heart health. Fish is low in calories and contains heart-healthy omega fatty acids. Omega fatty acids have been linked to lowering blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

Eggs

Eggs are a healthy source of high-quality protein. Proteins are given a rating based on their usability and digestibility of the amino acids they contain, which is known as the PDCAAS -- protein digestibility corrected amino acid score. It ranges from 0.0 to 1.0, and eggs score a perfect 1.0 as their value in your diet. Eggs provide a low-calorie source of important fats, proteins and antioxidants.

Preparing Your Meats

Anything can become unhealthy if it is prepared the wrong way. To prepare your meat in a healthy manner, stick with baking, grilling, broiling or roasting instead of frying. Also consider removing the skin, specifically from poultry, to reduce your fat intake. The skin is usually the fattiest part of meat.