Healthy Creativity
Art is more than just a celebration of creativity - it’s a testament to the enduring power of creativity to inspire, educate, heal, and unite us.
More Than Our Story
Why You Should Try Bison
Table of Contents
As people become more health-conscious and environmentally aware, alternative protein sources are gaining popularity; among them, bison meat is emerging as a standout. Often overlooked in favor of more common meats like beef or chicken, bison offers a range of nutritional, environmental, and culinary benefits. Here’s why adding bison to your diet could be a smart move.
The Benefits of Eating Bison
Leaner and Lower in Calories
One of the most compelling reasons to choose bison meat is its nutritional profile. Bison is naturally leaner than beef, containing significantly less fat, fewer calories, and more protein per serving.
THE LEANER CHOICE:
A 4-ounce serving of bison compared to beef typically has:
- Less Fat: 8 grams of fat, compared to 14 grams.
- Fewer Calories: 166 calories, compared to 224 calories.
- More Protein: 24 grams of protein, compared to 22 grams.
This makes bison an excellent choice for individuals seeking to manage their weight, reduce fat intake, or increase their intake of lean protein.
Rich in Nutrients
In addition to being a great source of protein, bison meat is packed with essential nutrients:
- Iron: Bison is rich in heme iron, which is more easily absorbed by the body than plant-based iron sources. This can help prevent iron deficiency, especially in women and athletes.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Grass-fed bison contain higher levels of heart-healthy omega-3s compared to grain-fed beef.
- Vitamin B12: Crucial for nerve function and energy production.
- Zinc and Selenium: These minerals are vital for immune function and cellular repair.
Easier on the Digestive System
Due to its lower fat content, bison is often easier to digest than heavily processed meats. This makes it a good option for people with sensitive stomachs or dietary restrictions.
Raised More Naturally
Bison are typically raised in more natural environments than cattle. They are pasture-raised and allowed to graze freely, which not only contributes to the meat’s nutritional quality but also aligns with more humane and ethical farming practices. Most bison are also not subjected to the same levels of antibiotics, hormones, and feeding conditions as conventional livestock.
Environmentally Friendly
Compared to beef production, bison farming is typically more sustainable. Bison are native to North America; therefore, they are well-adapted to the continent’s native grasslands. They also require less intervention, contribute positively to the prairie ecosystem, and their grazing patterns help maintain healthy soil. Therefore, choosing bison can help promote sustainable agricultural practices and biodiversity.
Fantastic Flavor
Many first-time bison eaters are pleasantly surprised by its taste. Bison has a slightly sweeter, richer flavor than beef, without being gamey. It’s incredibly versatile and works well in burgers, steaks, and even tartare.
TIPS FOR COOKING BISON:
Bison is leaner, so it cooks faster than beef and tends to dry out if overcooked. For optimal results, use the following tips:
- Cooking: Cook at lower temperatures and avoid overcooking—medium rare is ideal.
- Marinate: Use marinades including citrus and vinegars, as they naturally tenderize meat.
PRO TIP: Hot sauces generally include vinegar.
Conclusion
Bison meat is a nutritious, sustainable, and tasty alternative to more conventional meats. With its protein-rich, low-fat, and nutrient-packed profile, it’s a smart choice for those seeking healthier eating options while supporting environmentally sustainable farming practices. Whether you’re a foodie, a fitness enthusiast, or someone seeking ethical meat options, bison deserves a place on your plate. Bison: It’s better than beef.
SOURCES
- WebMD, What Are the Health Benefits of Bison Meat?, June 14, 2024, Written by Parang Mehta, Medically Reviewed by Christine Mikstas, RD, LD
- Healthline, All You Need to Know About Bison Meat, January 10, 2020, Daniel Preiato, RD, CSCS, Medically reviewed by Grant Tinsley, Ph.D., CSCS,*D, CISSN, Nutrition
- Healthline, Bison vs. Beef: What’s the Difference?, July 17, 2019, Ashley Sobel, RD, CDN
Daniel
Daniel is an extremely curious person, a wealth of random knowledge and facts. Extremely passionate about a vast array of interests ranging from health to history, science to athletics, everything culinary and the list goes on. Trust us, you would want to be on his team for Trivial Pursuit.
Daniel is also years into his battle with brain cancer. He experienced a seizure while on a Zoom call at work in late 2020 and quite literally, his life changed within minutes. After his operation he started to talk about his story but had always known it was more than just him. From then, More Than Our Story became a PROJECT that has evolved into the starting point it is today.
Related Health Articles
Choosing The Right Oil
Oils are an integral part of cooking. They appear in many of our favorite recipes, and play a pivotal role in various cooking techniques.
Still Here
With the summer ending, I reflect upon recent personal, physical and mental adversities my family and I have had to endure, and look forward to a new year.
The Skinny On Plant-Based Milks
Plant-based milks have emerged as a popular choice, but with so many choices available it's helpful to understand the differences between them.
The Health Benefits of Rutabaga
The Health Benefits of Rutabaga Table of Contents The Incredible Rutabaga Rutabaga, also known as Swedish turnip, wax turnip, swede or neep, is a cold-hearty root vegetable in the
Moving Beyond Grief
We all handle grief and loss differently, thankfully there are strategies that help us navigate these tough times, and move us beyond grief.
The Importance of Staying Hydrated
Hydration plays a crucial role in maintaining bodily functions, boosting physical and mental performance, and promoting overall well-being.
Manuka Honey
Manuka honey is a delicious honey native to New Zealand, renowned for its healing properties and incredible health benefits.
Homemade Sports Drinks
Today we’re going to take a look at electrolytes, what they do, and how you can make your own (and a lot cheaper) homemade electrolyte-based sports drinks.
Navigating Life With Epilepsy
This post sheds light on the reality of navigating life with epilepsy, the toll it takes and explores coping mechanisms to empower yourself and others.
Eating To Beat Cancer
Dieting can have a major impact on your health, including propensity for certain cancers. Help prevent and beat cancer with this healthy eating guide.
Embracing Life With Cancer
Learn how to embrace each day and live a happy life while faced with the challenges that come along with a cancer diagnosis.
What Should I Eat Before, During and After Workouts?
Carbohydrates, protein, and fats: A macronutrient-based guide to working out. What to eat, and when, to get the most out of your body.
Immunity Booster Shots
Keep yourself healthy with these inexpensive, quick and easy, immunity booster shots made with everyday ingredients.
Understanding Macronutrients
Macronutrients provide the energy necessary for our bodies to function and grow, each playing a unique role in our overall health and well-being.
The Importance Of Flexibility and Mobility
Flexibility and mobility are essential for anyone who wants to move pain-free, reduce injury risk, and stay active as they age.
A Day In My MS Life
Stephen Glaus shares his MS story, what it's like living a day in his life, and his mindset on waging war daily against this disease.
All About The Mediterranean Diet
The Mediterranean diet has garnered global recognition as one of the healthiest ways of eating, let's learn all about it.
Help Hope Bloom
Every 3 minutes someone in Canada hears the words “you have cancer" and their lives are forever changed. Donate this Daffodil Month and help hope bloom.
Coping With Anxiety
Anxiety is the body’s natural response to stress, something that everyone deals with; let’s review some methods for managing it.
Multifaceted Health
Health is more than physical. It encompasses all areas of our lives. If your physical health is not at its best there are other ways to maintain your overall health.
Choosing The Right Vinegar
This guide will help you when it comes to choosing the right vinegar, because having the right vinegar on hand can elevate any dish.
Center For Addiction and Mental Health
CAMH is leader in setting standards for care, research, education and social change, for addiction and mental health.
The Health Benefits of Fermented Foods
Fermented foods benefit your body and mind, from aiding digestion, to boosting immunity, and supporting mental and metabolic health.
Shrimp: Healthy Or Not?
Shrimp are a great source of lean protein, low in calories and high in nutrients, however like most foods there are health considerations... so let’s dive in.
Doing Plant-Based Right
Plant-based diets are not just the newest trend; it's a conscious shift towards a lifestyle that nurtures our bodies and respects the planet.
Beating The Winter Blues
If you’ve ever had to shovel your driveway in the cold, dark winter months, chances are you’ve experienced some form of seasonal depression.
The Importance Of Sleep
In today’s world, sleep often takes a backseat to work, social obligations, and screen time, but its importance cannot be overlooked.
All About Aphasia
Aphasia is a language disorder caused by damage to the regions of the brain that control language expression and comprehension.
Health Nuts
Nuts are a great source of plant-based protein, healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals that provide a whole host of health benefits.
Why You Should Try Bison
Boasting a range of nutritional, environmental, and culinary benefits, here’s why adding bison to your diet could be a smart move.
Canadian Cancer Society
The Canadian Cancer Society supports all people with all cancers throughout the entire cancer journey, from diagnosis to survivorship.