'Eating raw meat for health benefits'; Reality behind social media stars' claims

Numerous social media influencers including Brian Johnson and Paul Saladino are advocating for the consumption of raw meat and unheated milk claiming various health benefits. Johnson, followed by four million people on social media argues that raw beef meat and liver are beneficial for health and digestion, questioning the need for consuming vegetables over raw meat.

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However, health experts strongly oppose these claims, highlighting the potential risks associated with consuming raw meat and unheated milk. Contrary to popular belief, experts emphasize that cooking meat doesn't significantly reduce its nutritional value; instead, it eliminates harmful bacteria and reduces the risk of foodborne illnesses.

Raw meat, including beef and liver, contains bacteria such as Salmonella and Campylobacter, known to cause severe infections like diarrhoea. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports approximately 60 million cases of foodborne illnesses annually, often linked to the consumption of raw or undercooked foods. Such infections can affect various bodily systems, leading to symptoms like fever, chills, cough, sweating and sneezing posing serious health risks.

Moreover, raw meat's high levels of vitamin A and copper can have adverse effects on health, contributing to excessive intake that may result in health complications. The CDC strongly advises against consuming uncooked foods due to the inherent risks associated with bacterial contamination and subsequent infections affecting vital organs.