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In recent years the so-called healthy eating has been increasingly promoted, often involving various diets and strict eating habits. In the pursuit of a healthy lifestyle many of us easily give in to recommendations that sometimes lead to the exclusion of certain foods, for example lard. But is this approach really healthy, or is it driven more by marketing and controversial theories?
Is lard really evil?
One of the key moments in marketing campaigns is finding and labeling a „public enemy“. In the field of healthy nutrition this enemy often becomes lard, which is labeled as a poison full of cholesterol. Although our ancestors commonly used lard and other animal fats, today’s households tend to reach for vegetable oils, such as sunflower, rapeseed or olive oil.
Lard vs. vegetable oils
Vegetable oils, especially at high temperatures such as frying, are not always the best choice. They mainly contain unsaturated fatty acids, which oxidize quickly and lose quality. In contrast, lard is rich in saturated fatty acids, which are more stable and have several important functions for our health:
- They are basic building blocks of cell walls.
- They support the immune system.
- They stimulate the nervous system.
What healthy components are found in lard?
Lard contains not only saturated fatty acids but also omega-3 fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamins A, D, E and K. In addition, it contains antioxidants and other beneficial substances that support our health.
Lard belongs in the diet
Despite lard’s bad reputation there is no reason to completely exclude it from the diet. On the contrary, it can be beneficial for our body. Moderate consumption of lard can support health due to its nutritional properties and stability when cooking. Perhaps it is time to reconsider your eating habits and not be afraid to include animal fats back into the menu, though with moderation and prudence.
