Benefits of eating Lamb.

The meat of a young sheep less than a year old id referred to as lamb. Once the sheep is about 1 ½ years is it known as mutton.

All meats have high sources of protein. However, lamb is said to be healthier than beef or pork. Lamb is widely used the world over, in many Muslim and Christian religious ceremonies use lamb. The diet of Mediterranean people is high in lamb, it is believed perhaps that’s why they are healthier than those who feed primarily on beef.

As mentioned, lamb is a great source of protein with all 8 essential amino acids. Lamb is also high in other  nutrients such as Omega 3 fatty acids which are mostly found in fish and very few plants which help in boosting your immune system & helps to fight heart disease. Vitamin B complex, in particular Vit B12 helps support the formation of red blood cells and prevents anemia, and promotes a healthier nervous system.

Zinc is important for a strong immune system, wound healing and helps stabilize blood sugar levels. It is also useful in enabling optimal smell and taste functions. Selenium (antioxidant), Folate and Manganese are also found in Lamb, these trace elements also aid in reduction of cancer & heart disease. As well as Iron, Phosphorus, Calcium for your bones and Potassium for your muscles.

Lamb liver is especially good for you – one serving can give you about 40% of the recommended daily intake of protein, high in fat & Vitamin A. Lamb kidney is high in protein and iron but not in calories. This is good news for those seeking to lose some weight or reduce the amount of calories they ingest and those suffering from diabetes and is greatly recommended by doctors. Body builders also tend to eat a lot of lamb because of its high fat content.

This however does not mean you can eat all the lamb you want – remember, it is still red meat full of cholesterol, fats and sodium, all detrimental to your health. Though lamb contains lower levels of cholesterol than beef and pork, so eating lamb once a week is enough to reap its benefits.  Naturally occurring substances called purines are found in all red meats. The body is unable to filter them out (it’s responsible for the condition known as gout and the formation of kidney stones). If you have gout, eat very little red meat, lean meat to be precise.

Lamb works well with a wide range of flavors beyond the traditionally used mint sauce. Spices such as cumin and rosemary are good with lamb. You can also braise lamb in wine for a delightful taste! Marinades also work wonders, enhancing the texture & flavor of the meat.

Ground lamb can make good burgers too!

To be healthy, trim the fat on the lamb so you have just the lean meat to eat, which is a lot healthier!