Even, amidst the hype about links between red meat, cancer and cholesterol — some of us can’t deny those cravings for a good steak. But, we can avoid some of the most harmful side effects of consuming beef, if we’re conscious.

Know Your Meat

Cows are natural vegetarians and thrive on grasses. However, in an attempt to fatten and sell them quicker some farmers supplement their diets with grain. In the worst cases, animal by-products make it into cow feed. Since cows cannot readily digest these foods, they are also given antibiotics to keep them alive.

• Say No to Sick Cows

  If your roast comes from a cow that required antibiotics, you are not getting the best available meat. Europeans realized this more than 20 years ago when they discontinued the use of American meat.

• You Are What You Eat

  Many people with gluten intolerance find it difficult to digest red meat. This may be linked to the cow’s diet. If the cow is eating grain – so are you. And, when you cannot digest your food, you are in for a book’s worth of adverse affects.

• Say No to Sad Cows

  A recent article in the Chicago Reader called “Please Kill Me,” refers to the affect a cow’s stress level has on the final product. A farmer notes that he does not want to transport his Organic Cows across town for slaughter because the trip would frustrate them and result in tough meat. Most farmers agree that cows have no memory. But, treatment at slaughter or just before slaughter can damage the cow and the consumer. Check out PETA’s website to get an idea of how animals are slaughtered in this country.

Go Beyond Organic

Consuming prime cuts of organic grass-fed beef ensures that you are getting the cream of the crop. However, eating meat leaves behind by-products that can remain in your body and feed Cancer and other illnesses.

Cultured Vegetables contain live enzymes that help your body digest meat and turn harmful by-products into essential amino acids. You may also add Digestive Enzymes to your animal protein meals for a similar affect.

Forego the Fries

If you can muster up enough courage not to order “fries with that,” you will digest your meat faster and it will have less time to putrify and cause damage in your gut. Combining starches with animal protein can confuse your digestive acids.

But, if the bun and the fries make the meal for you – just be sure to combine your lunch with plenty of raw and/or cultured veggies. Gluten free breads and red potatoes fried in unrefined coconut oil at medium heat is an ideal alternative to “saying no” to the carbs altogether.

Steak at noon is healthier than steak at dusk because your body has more active time to break down nutrients.