Blue Zones - Can I eat steak?

If this is the first time you have heard of Blue Zones, then as a quick intro these are regions of the world where people are known to live longer and healthier lives. There are several books and even Netflix documentaries about Blue Zones, exploring the diets and lifestyle habits that have been known to lead to a healthier and longer life.

Diets in Blue Zones are known to include a variety of plant-based foods, whole grains, and lean protein sources. In some Blue Zones, there is moderate to very little consumption of animal products, including lean fish and poultry. Red meat consumption particularly, including steak, is generally limited in many Blue Zone diets, as such intake of red meat is often associated with health benefits, but also excessive consumption has been linked to certain health issues.

As a personal trainer, who is currently exploring the blue zones diet for many of its benefits, I am also conflicted in the limited amount of fish and meat in the blue zones diet. As my personal goals consist of weight training and having high protein intake, often I get these foods from lean meats, fish and eggs. I also, of course, get these from plant-based sources, but often not as easy or high enough to reach my personal protein goal.

That being said, whilst I am adapting to this blue zone diet, I am making some minor adjustments when it comes to eating chicken and steak. Nearly all of my meals so far each week, consist of 3 or 4 different types of vegetables, whole grains and some source of protein. However, I am not having as big of portion size of meats and mainly adding more vegetables. I've also been avoiding gluten and dairy for personal health intolerances. My advice would be to analyse your personal goals, food preferences and intolerances and find what's best and sustainable for you.

I've actually been really enjoying my meals so far, everything has been made super tasty and healthy and I've enjoyed eating this much vegetables.

This meal is made up of brown rice, eggs, red onion, broccoli, sprouts and a small portion of sirloin steak (half the amount), and I split the meal prep into two.

It's a super tasty meal, seasoned with honey, chilli flakes & S&P.

Results? No bloating, reducing inflammation and a nutritious and high protein meal!