Online Reporter
LONDON. – Eating lean beef could be less damaging to your gut than eating chicken, according to a controversial new study.
While red and processed meat have been linked to an increased risk of bowel cancer and heart disease, poultry had, until now, been considered a less risky source of protein.
In the study, Spanish researchers analysed how chicken and beef affected the gut microbiome of 16 healthy individuals, mostly aged between 18 and 22-years-old.
They found that whilst both diets — which were followed for a period of eight weeks — had an impact on gut bacteria, the chicken-based diet was associated with a significant decrease in microbial diversity and richness.
The gut microbiome—the community of friendly bacteria that live in the gut and communicate with the brain—is essential for protecting against infection and disease.
After eating a chicken-based diet, participants were also found to have higher levels of harmful bacteria in the gut, which has been linked with a number of diseases including bowel cancer.
Interestingly, they found that the beef-based diet led to a significant increase in Blautia bacteria which plays a key role in protecting the mucus barrier in the gut, warding off inflammation and disease.
In the study, participants were instructed to follow their usual diet and randomly assigned to eat Pirenaica beef—which is naturally high in potassium, zinc and vitamin B—or chicken three times a week.
Chefs prepared the cuts using standardised cooking methods including grilling, stewing and roasting.
The nutritional value of both diets, including protein and fat sources, were similar in both groups.
Participants then had a wash-out period of five weeks between the two diets, in which they resumed their normal diet.
Stool samples were collected at the beginning and end of each diet-period.
The researchers found that the chicken-based diet negatively affected the body’s ability to process glucose — a type of sugar — which interfered with blood sugar levels.
Blood sugar levels often change in the day but it is important to try and keep levels stable.
According to the NHS, low blood sugar below 4mmol/L can be dangerous if left untreated causing seizures, sleep disturbances, loss of consciousness and heart palpitations.
They also found that this diet led to a decrease in the production of amino acids — the building blocks of proteins — which are essential for immune function and gut health.
Writing in the journal Molecular Nutrition and Food Research, they concluded: “These findings suggest that the integration of lean red meat from beef into a healthy dietary pattern could positively influence not only the gut microbiome but also some health indicators.” – Mailonline
