What seems to be a simple choice between your favourite non-veg meal turns out to be the ultimate heart food. As Indians keep on asking what protein is healthiest for the heart, the research go on.
The fish vs chicken vs red meat debate has now taken a new turn with new sets of pluses and minuses. Who will win the battle between the three? Well, know the answer to make your heart feel not cheated by your protein meal.
Fish vs Chicken vs Red Meat Debate Gains Attention in Heart Research
The battle of fish vs chicken vs red meat begins with fish, which you may often ignore just for the stink. Well, this humble protein source houses rich omega-3s like EPA and DHA. They support cardiovascular health as well as cognitive function. Oily fish like salmon, tuna, and sardines can lower your CRP, which causes inflammation in the heart. Chicken stands second as a prominent source of lean protein and B vitamins.
However, in comparison to fish, chicken loses due to not having the anti-inflammatory and brain-boosting properties. Lastly, red meat stands poorly in the last position, being full of saturated fat. Mutton and other sources of red meat directly increase the risk of heart attacks by increasing the blockage of arteries. The MBBS and Diabetologist Dr. Rajender Ramagiri suggests having chicken always over mutton. Chicken also contains iron, which improves oxygen-rich blood flow to your heart.
Experts Compare Nutritional Impact on Long-Term Heart Health
When it comes to heart health, fish is the clear winner, offering significant benefits due to its omega-3 content, which helps lower cholesterol, reduce inflammation, and prevent artery stiffness. Experts also recommend chicken, especially country chicken, over regular poultry for heart benefits, as it’s lower in saturated fats.
On the other hand, red meat, especially processed varieties, increases LDL cholesterol, artery stiffness, and overall heart risks, making it less heart-healthy. Research consistently links red meat consumption with higher cardiovascular disease risk. So, for long-term heart health, fish is the best choice, followed by lean chicken, while red meat should be limited or avoided.
Nutritional Comparison: Chicken vs Fish, Deciding Factors for Heart Health
Maintain a balance between fish and chicken for a heart-friendly diet. Well, the experts suggest you do so. In terms of protein, chicken beats fish with 31g in comparison to fish’s 22g. Fish also contains more fat than chicken, which you may want to ignore. But fish offers a greater amount of vitamin B12, vitamin D, selenium, and potassium, along with Omega-3 fats.
Therefore, Chicken will be more appropriate if you are on a high-protein weight loss diet, as it contains less fat. However, fish with fatty acids, vitamin B12, selenium, and potassium should be in your diet.
Disclaimer: This content, including advice, provides general information only. It is not a substitute for qualified medical opinion in any way. The methods and claims mentioned in this article should be considered as suggestions only; DNP India neither confirms nor denies them. Always consult a doctor before following any such suggestions/treatments/medications/diets.
