What Happens To Your Body When You Eat Beef Jerky Regularly

Beef jerky is a popular snack. So, is it good to eat beef jerky regularly? This article will give you a detailed look at the benefits, harms and things to keep in mind when eating beef jerky.

What Happens To Your Body When You Eat Beef Jerky Regularly Picture 1

Dried pork skin is an essential source of protein for the body, supporting muscle building and recovery. Photo: PHUONG LE.

Benefits of eating beef jerky

Rich in protein: Provides essential protein for the body, supports muscle building and recovery.

Boosts Immunity: Beef jerky contains the essential mineral zinc. Zinc helps support the immune system and energy levels. The body tends to absorb zinc better from animal sources like beef jerky.

Prevents iron deficiency: Provides iron, which is important for transporting oxygen in the blood. Beef jerky is also a good source of iron.

Harmful effects of eating beef jerky regularly

Causes bloating and weight gain: Beef jerky is high in sodium, which can cause water retention, bloating, weight gain, and increase the risk of certain diseases such as heart disease.

Increased risk of chronic disease: As a processed red meat, beef jerky may increase the risk of cancer, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Some evidence suggests that red meat may cause high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (the bad cholesterol) and may be better replaced with plant-based protein options.

Choosing healthy beef jerky

Choose low-sodium beef jerky.

Choose naturally fermented beef jerky.

Choose whole beef jerky, avoid the kind made from minced or ground meat.

Who should avoid eating beef jerky?

People with high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney disease.

People over 50 years old.

Pregnant women.

People allergic to beef, soy or gluten.

Sodium nitrate in beef jerky

Beef jerky often contains sodium nitrate, an additive that can cause high blood pressure and cancer.

How much beef jerky should I eat per day?

Beef jerky should be eaten in moderation (about 28g/day). Each serving contains about 100 calories. Although this snack can be beneficial because of its high nutritional content, it is still recommended to consume beef jerky in moderation.

You should eat whole, unprocessed foods to meet your nutritional needs for protein, zinc, iron, and other essential nutrients.

How is beef jerky made?

Beef jerky is made by dehydrating beef. However, we need to pay attention to food safety when making beef jerky at home.

Beef jerky is a delicious and nutritious snack, but should be consumed in moderation and good quality meat should be chosen to ensure health safety.

Kareem Winters

Update 12 February 2025