Meat has many benefits for the skin, but at the same time it may cause some risks and harms, so experts recommend eating it in moderation and without excess.
Style Book magazine explained that meat is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which provides essential amino acids, which are necessary for the production of collagen and elastin in the skin, which gives the skin strength and elasticity.
It also contains high amounts of zinc, which plays an important role in healing skin injuries, regulating sebum production, and fighting infections.
Red meat, in particular, is rich in iron, which is easily absorbed by the body. Iron promotes healthy blood circulation, which in turn provides a better supply of nutrients and oxygen to skin cells.
Cell renewal
Meat is also rich in vitamin B12, which works to renew and repair cells, while its deficiency leads to dry and cracked skin.
Meat, especially liver, is a good source of selenium, which has antioxidant properties and can protect the skin from damage caused by “free radicals” such as premature aging.
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On the other hand, excessive consumption of meat involves many risks and harms to the skin, as it is linked to an increased risk of skin cancer, especially due to the nitrates and nitrites it contains, which can form carcinogenic compounds.
Also, preparing at high temperatures, such as grilling or frying, produces compounds that can also increase the risk of skin cancer.
Premature aging and wrinkles
Excessive consumption of meat can also increase the production of free radicals in the body, and therefore in the skin as well. These radicals cause oxidative damage to skin cells, which can lead to premature aging and wrinkles.
Arachidonic acid found in meat also has an inflammatory effect and can also cause premature wrinkles.
Meat, especially when prepared at high temperatures, may contain compounds that have a pro-inflammatory and pro-oxidant effect, which can weaken the skin structure and inhibit the functions of cells and enzymes, thus promoting the aging of cells and tissues.
Excessive consumption of meat, which is high in saturated and trans fats, can lead to increased sebum production by the skin, which in turn leads to oily skin, clogged pores and acne.
Processed meats in particular also contain many inflammatory components such as saturated fats and additives, which can aggravate skin inflammation and acne.
Saturated fats and other components found in meat can have an inflammatory effect, thus worsening the symptoms of atopic dermatitis.
Maximum meat
To benefit from the benefits of meat and avoid its harms, it should be eaten in moderation and without excess. According to the recommendations of the German Nutrition Society, the maximum should not exceed 300-600 grams per week.
It is preferable to eat fresh meat and avoid highly processed meats such as sausages as much as possible, as processed meats usually contain sugar, phosphates and processed salt nitrite, which is suspected of promoting cancer, in addition to flavor enhancers and many additives and potential allergens such as gluten and lactose.