Nutrient Database – USDA (United States Department of Agriculture)

Reference Values for Nutrition – FDA U.S. Food and Drug Administration

High-quality protein source - Pork is a high-quality, complete protein source, providing all essential amino acids crucial for muscle growth, repair, and bodily functions, with lean cuts offering significant protein with less fat. Beyond protein, it's rich in B vitamins (thiamin, niacin, B6, B12) for energy, minerals like zinc, iron, phosphorus, and selenium for immunity, skin health, and metabolism, plus carnosine for physical performance, making it a nutrient-dense food for a balanced diet.

Boosts energy and reduces fatigue - Pork is a nutrient-dense food that supports energy production and helps reduce fatigue, largely due to its high concentration of B vitamins—specifically thiamine (B1), niacin (B3), and B6—as well as iron. It acts as a "natural energy" source for the body, with nutrients that help convert food into usable energy and support muscle function.

Supports muscle function - Pork supports muscle function by providing high-quality protein for repair and growth, essential B vitamins (like B6 for metabolism), and minerals like potassium and phosphorus, which aid muscle performance, energy, and tissue maintenance, making it ideal for active individuals and overall body health.

Strengthens bones and teeth - Pork is a nutrient-dense food that supports bone and tooth health, primarily through its high content of phosphorus, protein, and other essential minerals. 

Enhances brain health and mood - Fresh, lean pork is a nutrient-dense food that supports brain health and mood through high levels of B vitamins (particularly thiamin, B6, and B12), essential minerals, and high-quality protein. Key nutrients in pork, such as choline and selenium, also play critical roles in cognitive function and protection against mental decline.

Boosts immune system - Pork boosts the immune system by providing essential nutrients like zinc, selenium, and B vitamins (B6, B12), which are crucial for normal immune function, cell production, and fighting infections, alongside protein for muscle and overall bodily functions. Key immune-supporting minerals, particularly zinc and selenium, help protect cells and regulate the body's defences, making lean pork a nutrient-dense addition to a balanced diet, especially when choosing cuts like loin or tenderloin.

Antioxidant properties - Pork provides several key health benefits related to its natural antioxidant properties, which help protect cells from damage, reduce oxidative stress, and support immune function.

Heart health - Lean pork, particularly cuts like tenderloin and sirloin, supports heart health by providing protein, B vitamins (thiamine, niacin), and minerals, improving blood lipids and acting as a leaner alternative to fatty meats, but moderation is key, avoiding processed pork (bacon, sausage) and fatty cuts to prevent increased cardiovascular risk. 

Rich in essential vitamins - Pork is rich in essential B vitamins (thiamin, niacin, B6, B12) for energy, brain function, and cell health, plus minerals like iron (blood), zinc (immunity), selenium (antioxidant), and phosphorus (bones). These nutrients support muscle growth, metabolism, nerve function, and overall immunity, making lean pork a valuable part of a balanced diet for energy and well-being. 

Rich in essential minerals - Pork is rich in essential minerals and B vitamins, offering benefits like energy, muscle support, and immune function, with key nutrients including thiamin, B6, B12, zinc, selenium, iron, and phosphorus; these support everything from cell repair and energy conversion to thyroid health and healthy skin, especially in leaner cuts like loin or fillet, making it a valuable addition to a balanced diet.

Pork – From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

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