Introduction:
Iberian acorn-fed ham is one of the most valued gastronomic treasures in Spain, known not only for its exquisite flavor, but also for its supposed health benefits. However, amid the popularity of this delicacy, a series of myths and realities emerge that deserve to be analyzed. This type of ham comes from Iberian pigs that feed on acorns in the pasture, which gives them unique characteristics in both their texture and nutritional profile.
It is often attributed beneficial properties, such as its high content of healthy fats and antioxidants, which could contribute to a balanced diet. However, it is essential to separate fact from fiction and understand how the consumption of acorn-fed Iberian ham can be integrated into a healthy lifestyle. In this article, we will explore the health benefits of this delicious delicacy.
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Why eating Iberian ham is good for your health
Eating Iberian ham is beneficial for health, especially acorn-fed ham, which is made from free-range Iberian pigs fed with acorns during the montanera. This type of Iberian acorn-fed ham is recognized for its exceptional flavor and quality, being considered the best ham in the world. The curing process of at least 36 months enhances its richness in nutrients, in addition to having healthy fat that can benefit the heart. When buying Iberian ham, it is essential to look for products with a designation of origin, such as pata negra ham, which guarantees authenticity and superior quality.
It is a natural antioxidant that helps in the generation of healthy cholesterol thanks to its oleic acid content, in addition to being rich in vitamin E. For example, consuming it together with tomato or extra virgin olive oil enhances its positive effects.
The quality of the fat of Iberian acorn-fed ham is outstanding, with a predominance of oleic acid in its composition (greater than 50%), which is typical of olive oil. This promotes the generation of HDL ("good cholesterol") in the body, while lowering LDL ("bad cholesterol"). This phenomenon is due to the large amount of acorns that the animal ingests during the montanera before being slaughtered.
Consuming ham is beneficial, as it is an excellent source of group B vitamins, particularly B1 and B2. Only 100 grams of ham provide 24% of the recommended daily intake of these vitamins. It contains 50% more protein than fresh meats. Its artisanal curing process is completely natural, which means that the ham does not contain any additives other than pork. And the most notable thing is that it does not make you fat! It is low in calories, has less fat than chicken and less sodium than ham. This food is ideal for low-calorie diets, since 50 grams of acorn-fed Iberian ham only add up to around 150 kilocalories.
It is abundant in iron, magnesium, zinc and calcium, but especially in phosphorus, providing 30% of the recommended daily intake.
Studies that prove it
To dispel any uncertainty, Emilio Martínez de Victoria, professor at the Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology of the University of Granada, clarifies it forcefully. It highlights that the acorn-based diet of completely Iberian pigs, together with their physical activity in the field, reduces the fat content in their meat. This implies that you can enjoy it "two to three times" a week, since it is also rich in vitamins and minerals.
One of the most significant studies carried out on the benefits of acorn-fed Iberian ham was carried out in 2015, under the direction of José Sabán, professor of Medicine at the University of Alcalá, and had the support of the Ramón y Cajal hospital in Madrid. The results were clear. It was highlighted that the consumption of 50 grams of acorn-fed Iberian ham per day contributes to reducing blood pressure and, therefore, improves blood circulation.
To disprove the urban myth that states that ham causes weight gain, it was found that the one hundred people who were part of the study had not increased their weight by consuming this product daily. This is the opinion of specialists, in which there is little room for doubt. In reality, it is not just his point of view, but the scientific conclusions of research carried out with all guarantees.
If we have decided to start a change towards a healthier diet that helps us lose weight, Iberian acorn-fed ham is not only compatible with this, but it is recommended that it be part of our diet. There is no room for guilt or regret. Let's open our arms to the product that represents us the most, it must always be one hundred percent Iberian and fed with acorns.
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