When we compare their fat content, domesticated animals contain far more fat than the wild animals our ancestors hunted.  If we compare the fatty acids contained in domestic animals compared to their wild counterparts, there are important differences here as well.

Domesticated animals:

• Beef contains 18-41% fat
• Mutton contains 20-40% fat
• Pork contains 35-60% fat
• Domesticated reindeer go up to almost 20%

Wild Animals

• Venison & moose usually carry 2-3% fat
• Wild sheep contains 5% fat
• Wild pigs carry only 1-3% fat
• Wild Caribou have only 3% fat

Wild animals also have significantly higher levels and better ratios of the Essential Fatty Acids.  Unfortanately, most of our domesticated livestock is feed a diet high in corn and soy with makes the amount of Omega 6 fatty acid too high and Omega 3 too low.  This leads to inflammation in humans.

Whenever possible, try to eat wild meats like venison, bison, and rabbit.  Animals that eat according to their nature not only have less fat, but the structure of that fat is what humans are designed to eat.  Cud-chewing animals are meant to eat grass.  Pigs and chickens are omnivores and are meant to eat grubs, beetles and other insects, not just grain.  Whenever possible, try to consume only animals that have eaten this way.  These are becoming more readily available but ask your local butcher or grocery to carry more.  As consumers we must insist on getting better quality foods at reasonable prices.  If everyone starts asking for grass-fed beef instead of feed-lot beef, we will start to see some changes.

I encourage you to go to your local video store and rent the movie “Food Inc” – watch the trailer HERE.  It is a shocking movie that shows what is really happening in farms across America.  Our food supply is being destroyed by corporations.  I guarantee you will never look at food that same way after watching this movie.  Knowledge is power and we all need to learn how to make better choices and insist on better food.

Linda Miner

Registered Nutritional Counselor

RNC, CHN, RSNA, CMTA, BA

Click HERE to learn more details about my Wellness Services

Click HERE to learn more details about Monavie

*NOTE:  This opinion expressed here is that of the author based on her research and personal experience.  It is not intended to replace your own personal research or the opinion of your physician.  You should always check with your physician and/or pharmacist before changing your diet, starting an exercise programs or taking any supplements.  Please be aware that some foods and natural supplements may interact with prescription medication.