When we talk about Iberico ham, Spanish most-reputed cuisine, we are often reminded by the aromatic and palatable experience that engrave on our memories.
Indeed, the succulent cured meat is more than just a piece of ham with fragrance. The composition of the ham contains some inconceivable health values.
Consuming pure Iberico ham helps reduce high cholesterol
The 100% Iberico pigs feed on acorns (i.e. from holm and cork trees, dwarf and gall oaks) and are free-range in idyllic meadows. That is why their lard, in contrast to other farmed animal’s fat, is drastically healthier.
The fat is monounsaturated which is found in avocados and vegetable oils. Oleic acid is high in the ham with a total of 58%, which attains the level in olive oil. The oleic acid is highly desirable from a health perspective since it lowers blood pressure and cholesterol. It can increase good cholesterol in the body, fight inflammation and decrease the risk of having a certain cancer.
The ham contains plentiful vitamins
There are at least four vitamins in a piece of Iberico ham. There is 1) Vitamin B1, which prevents complications in the nervous system, brain, muscles, heart, stomach and intestines. 2) Vitamin B6, which is a metabolic enhancer in hormonal optimisation, cell health and energy utilisation. 3) Vitamin B12, which is important for brain function and synthesis of red blood cells. 4) Vitamin E, which is a good antioxidant especially beneficial to skin care. Our body cannot produce the afore-listed vitamins. They must be obtained from diet.
High in Protein
The acorn-diet ham is much higher in proteins compared to other types of meat. In each 100 gram, there is 43g of proteins.
However, for a 100g lean beef, there is only 26g. That is nearly two times more in proteins! Body-builders are recommended to include some Iberico ham in the daily workout diet.
Rich in essential minerals
The Spanish gourmet has zinc and magnesium which are important for body health. Zinc is vital for a healthy immune system, correctly synthesizing DNA, promoting healthy growth during childhood, and healing wounds.
Magnesium plays a role in over 300 enzymatic reactions within the body, including the metabolism of food, synthesis of fatty acids and proteins, and the transmission of nerve impulses.
Most of all, the Iberico ham is low in calories.
There is only 150 kcal per every 50 gram (while it is 300kcal for the same amount of almond).
Considering all the benefits in a piece of Iberico ham, we should break the stereotype that the Spanish ham is only a guilty-pleasure food or a food in a certain occasion. Instead, we can consume it regularly in a small quantity to keep ourselves healthy. Keep an eye on our social media and blog to discover more of our products and recommended food pairing!
