Lean beef doesn't always raise cholesterol levels, study finds

Many individuals who have a prescription to buy Lipitor or any other statin medication to lower their cholesterol levels may have been advised at some point to avoid eating too much red meat, as this food has high levels of saturated fat, which may raise cholesterol levels. However, a new study indicates that this may not necessarily be the best advice.

A team of researchers from Penn State University tested the effects of various diets on individuals' cholesterol levels. Their research showed that people are able to lower their cholesterol levels to a significant degree when they limit their consumption of lean beef to between 4 and 5.4 ounces per day.

The key is to choose lean options over more fatty varieties. Not all types of beef have the same amount of saturated fat, and some may be significantly worse for heart health than others. If proper decisions are made, there is no reason why a person with high cholesterol should completely eliminate red meat from their diet.

The findings have important implications beyond simply giving those with high cholesterol an excuse to eat red meat. Beef is an excellent source of B vitamins and protein, and may play an important role in a balanced diet.