Health benefits of Iberian ham

Health Benefits of Iberian Ham: Nutritional Properties

The “health benefits of Iberian ham” are increasingly recognized thanks to scientific studies that support its nutritional properties. A clinical study conducted by the Juan Ramón Jiménez Hospital and the Huelva-Costa Health District has shown that 100% Iberian acorn-fed ham offers positive effects on cardiovascular and metabolic health.

Revealing Clinical Study

The study, led by doctors Emilio Márquez Contreras and Antonio León Justel, involved 100 healthy people between the ages of 25 and 55. For eight weeks, participants consumed 40 grams of 100% Iberian acorn-fed ham daily with breakfast. The results were compared with an eight-week period where they maintained their normal diet.

Proven Cardiovascular Benefits

One of the main “health benefits of Iberian ham” is its positive impact on cardiovascular health. Daily consumption of 40 grams significantly increased HDL cholesterol (“good” cholesterol) levels, even surpassing some drugs used to treat cholesterol. Additionally, it reduced levels of LDL cholesterol (“bad” cholesterol) and triglycerides, risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

Other Health Benefits

The study also revealed that Iberian ham does not affect blood pressure in healthy adults and does not cause weight gain or abdominal girth gain, making it safe from a metabolic perspective. Additionally, a significant decrease in blood uric acid was observed, making it recommended for people with hyperuricemia or gout.

Outstanding Nutritional Properties

100% acorn-fed Iberian ham is rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as oleic and linoleic acids, similar to those found in olive oil. It also provides proteins and amino acids of high biological value, vitamins B and E, and minerals such as iron, zinc, and selenium.

Differences between Iberian and Serrano Ham

The key difference lies in their diet and curing process. Iberian pigs are primarily fed acorns, which allows for the accumulation of polyphenols and antioxidants in their adipose tissue. Iberian ham is cured for a longer period, between 14 and 36 months, and its classification depends on the pig’s diet: acorn-fed, field-fed, and grain-fed.

Serrano ham, on the other hand, comes from white pigs and is cured between 7 and 24 months. Its meat has a reddish hue with pink hues, while Iberian ham is a deeper red. Both types of ham are low in saturated fat.

Incorporate Iberian Ham into Your Diet

To take advantage of the “health benefits of Iberian ham,” include it in your diet in a balanced way. Eat it in moderation, preferably the 100% acorn-fed Iberian ham variety, to obtain the greatest amount of nutrients and antioxidants.

Iberian ham is a delicious and nutritious food that, when consumed in moderation, can provide significant benefits for your health.