ZINC

3 ounces of beef =

11-2/3 (3 oz)

servings of tuna meat

3 ounces of beef provides 39% of the USRDA

Zinc may not be a nutrient you think about, but your body needs it for many essential functions such as growth and development, maintenance of the body's immune system, wound healing, and appetite control. Beef is the number one source of zinc in the American diet. In addition to containing a high level of zinc, beef also increases the absorption of zinc from other foods when eaten at the same meal.

VITAMIN B-12

3 ounces of beef =

7 (3 oz)

skinless chicken breasts

3 ounces of beef provides 37% of the USRDA

B vitamins work to promote growth and maintain health. You need essential B vitamins to unleash the energy in food.  Calorie for calorie, beef is one of the best sources of many essential B vitamins.  A balanced diet that includes beef can help give you the energy you need to tackle your busy days.

IRON

3 ounces of beef =

3 cups

raw spinach

3 ounces of beef provides 14% of the USRDA

Iron is a mineral that plays a vital role in many biological functions. It helps carry oxygen to body cells and tissues, assists in making new red blood cells, aids in brain development, and supports the immune system. Research has shown that even mild, short-term iron deficiency can impair your ability to function at peak productivity. Beef is the number three source of iron in the American diet after enriched breads and cereals. The iron in beef is more completely absorbed by the body than the iron in breads, cereals, or other plant products.

RIBOFLAVIN

3 ounces of beef =

2-1/3 (3 oz)

skinless chicken breasts

3 ounces of beef provides 12% of the USRDA

THIAMIN

3 ounces of beef =

1-3/4 (3 oz)

skinless chicken breasts

CLA

(Conjugated linoleic acid)

CLA is a fatty acid found naturally in beef and dairy products. Recent research indicates that CLA may play a role in cancer prevention by inhibiting tumor growth and development.  It can also affect body composition by decreasing body fat and increasing lean muscle mass.  CLA may help normalize blood glucose levels and prevent diabetes. It may also contribute to heart health by helping to lower serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which in turn may help prevent the blockage of artery walls.

SELENIUM

3 ounces of beef provides 31% of the USRDA

Selenium is a trace mineral occuring naturally in many food sources.  Seafood and beef tend to contain more selenium than plant foods. Selenium is an antioxidant that works with vitamin E to help prevent damage to your body's cells. Recent studies have found adequate intake of selenium may reduce the risk of heart disease and certain types of cancers.  

CHOLINE

Choline is an essential nutrient for humans.  It plays a vital role in cognition and long- and short-term memory functions. Along with many other nutrients, beef contains a significant amount of choline. Does that mean that eating beef will make you smarter? The answer is "yes."