Nutritionist explains why meat 'is one of the most complete food groups': 'It's not your enemy'

In a spontaneously recorded video while sharing a meal with a friend, nutritionist Paloma Quintana stated that "meat is not your enemy; it's one of the most complete food groups we have, and its amino acid profile is ideal."

The moment was shared by his companion after hearing the reflection, which seeks to demystify common beliefs about this product.

Quintana points out that eliminating meat from the diet with the goal of losing body fat or improving health is an increasingly common practice, although, he maintains, it lacks scientific support.

His intervention joins that of other experts who defend the nutritional value of meat, especially when it comes from grass-fed animals.

A well-selected portion of meat can provide complete proteins, iron, zinc, and other essential minerals. Furthermore, its ability to generate long-lasting satiety makes it a useful option for regulating appetite , without having to resort to ultra-processed or high-calorie products.

The specialist emphasizes that these benefits are associated with the consumption of fresh or simply processed meats, such as quality Iberian ham. Under these conditions, meat can be healthily integrated into the daily diet.

Contrary to the widespread belief that meat consumption can cause inflammation or digestive problems, Quintana maintains that the opposite occurs "if it is included within the framework of a healthy lifestyle."

"No, it's not inflammatory: contrary to popular belief, if well-chosen and in a healthy context of lifestyle habits, it contributes to a less inflammatory environment, doesn't cause digestive problems, and is even one of the most interesting food groups for resolving them," she said in the Instagram video.

In her experience, incorporating meat —especially lean or free-range cuts— can improve both digestion and overall well-being.

Paloma Quintana has recounted her own process of change on several occasions, following a period in which she eliminated both meat and fish from her diet.

Her training as a nutritionist and her personal experience led her to reintroduce these foods, convinced that their presence is positive within a balanced nutritional approach tailored to individual needs.

*This content was written with the assistance of artificial intelligence, based on publicly available information released to media outlets. It was also reviewed by the journalist and an editor.