Meat Alarm at Bairam Tables: Do Not Endanger Your Health!

Eid al-Adha is a feast of sharing, solidarity and crowded tables. However, according to experts, red meat, which plays a leading role in the tables, can bring health problems when consumed unconsciously. Istanbul Gelisim University (IGU) Faculty of Health Sciences, Head of Nutrition and Dietetics Department Assoc. Prof. H. Merve Bayram warned that increased meat consumption during the Eid al-Adha may lead to serious health problems, especially in individuals with chronic diseases.

"Newly cut meat should not be consumed immediately"

Stating that red meat is a nutritious food with high quality protein, iron, zinc, phosphorus and vitamin B12 content, Bayram said, "However, red meat should be consumed in moderation due to its saturated fat and cholesterol content. Immediate consumption of newly slaughtered meat can make digestion difficult due to ’stiffness of death'. For this reason, it is recommended to consume meat by resting for at least 12 to 24 hours.”

Grilled or roasted? What's the healthiest?

Assoc. Prof. Bayram emphasized that the daily consumption of red meat should not exceed 90-120 grams of portions 2-3 times a week for healthy individuals, while the method of cooking meat is also decisive for health:
“When cooking meat, boiling, baking or grilling methods should be preferred instead of frying or roasting. Especially the distance between the meat cooked on the grill and the fire should be at least 15-20 cm. Otherwise, high heat will cause the outer surface to burn before it reaches the inside of the meat. While this leads to the loss of protein and B group vitamins, it can also lead to the formation of carcinogenic compounds.”

Heart patients should be especially careful: Lean meat is a must!

Bayram, who made special warnings for individuals with chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension and diabetes, said, "These individuals should stay away from saturated fat sources such as internal fat and tail fat, cook the meat with their own fat if possible, and not add additional fat. Lean or low-fat meat should be preferred and portion control should be ensured. "
Stating that eating meat on an empty stomach on the morning of the feast may trigger stomach disorders, Nutrition and Dietetics Specialist Assoc. Prof. H. Merve Bayram said, "It is important to start the day with a balanced breakfast. Foods such as low-fat cheese, whole-grain bread, seasonal greens facilitate digestion."

How to store meat?

Stating that not only consumption but also the storage conditions of the meat are of vital importance during the feast process, Assoc. Prof. Bayram emphasized that the meat should be divided into portions and stored in the freezer, and the thawing process should be carried out on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator. She also reminded that raw meat and vegetable-fruit contact should be prevented.

"With healthy choices, festive tables became meaningful"

Stating that it is possible to establish healthy and safe tables during the feast, Istanbul Gelisim University Faculty of Health Sciences Head of Nutrition and Dietetics Department Assoc. Prof. H. Merve Bayram emphasized that balanced, hygienic and conscious eating habits will strengthen not only physical health but also the meaning of the bairam.
Reminding that the Feast of Sacrifice should be remembered with health as well as pleasure and sharing, she pointed out that making the right choices at the feast tables is a critical step for both individual and social health.