Embarking on the path to better health often leads people to experiment with different dietary approaches. The carnivore diet has gained traction, offering healing benefits for many through a generous consumption of steaks.

However, for those, who are facing some of the most severe health challenges, including compromised digestive systems, the thought of incorporating beef can stir up unwelcome symptoms.

Whether it’s contemplating a juicy steak or considering a beef meat stock, some GAPStars navigating the intricate world of No Plant GAPS find themselves grappling with unique challenges.

Let’s explore the reasons why beef can be problematic for some.  

Commercialization and Hybridization of Cattle:

Cattle, being one the most commercialized animals in the human world, undergo extensive hybridization. The majority of dairy products lining supermarket shelves originate from what some might colloquially refer to as “Frankenstein cows.” These animals are not the result of natural breeding but are carefully crafted in laboratories. The process involves selecting animals afflicted with pituitary adenoma, a tumor in the brain. These chosen cows then become the genetic foundation for commercial milk-producing cows. These cows are very sick. These cows give “Frankenstein milk”. And once they are retired from giving milk, the meat is often utilized for ground beef and other processed meat products. This meat is “Frankenstein meat”.
These cows are frequently given growth hormones and antibiotics, and their diet includes genetically modified (GMO) grains, soybean meals, canola meals, and other heavily processed and non-natural supplements. More sensitive GAPStars will be reacting to it.

Antigens:

A second unique challenge related to beef – the antigens present in the meat also exist in the milk. This double whammy means that those people who consume both beef and milk from hybridized cattle may experience cross-reactivity, exacerbating intolerance issues.

The hybridization process creates animals with compromised health, potentially leading to adverse reactions in those who consume their meat and dairy products. It’s a cycle where the allergens in both milk and meat contribute to heightened intolerance levels. This is one of the main reasons why some individuals find it challenging to tolerate beef at the beginning of their GAPS journey

If health is the primary goal, we need to shift away from supermarket beef. Instead, we need to seek out farmers who genuinely care for their land and animals becomes.

These farmers not only provide healthier meat and dairy options by raising their cows on pasture. These animals are not subjected to genetically modified soy, grains, chemicals, or additives in their diets. The emphasis here is on returning to a more natural and less manipulated source of meat.

If your digestive system is very damaged, you may want to try consuming beef from heritage cows.

Heritage breeds are traditional, often historical, breeds of livestock that were developed over time and have genetic characteristics that distinguish them from modern or commercial breeds. Here is a list of some heritage cattle breeds:

• Dexter: Dexters are a small-sized breed known for their dual-purpose capabilities, providing both milk and beef. They originated in Ireland.
• Belgian Blue: Originating in Belgium, these cattle are known for their muscular build and efficient meat production.
• Randall: The Randall cattle are a rare breed that originated in Vermont, USA. They are known for their ability to thrive in diverse climates.
• Kerry: Kerry cattle are an Irish breed that is small to medium-sized and has a distinct black color. They are known for their hardiness.
• Chillingham Cattle: Native to the Chillingham Park in England, these cattle are considered one of the oldest and purest breeds.
• Red Poll: Red Poll cattle are a dual-purpose breed originating in England. They are known for their good temperament and adaptability.
• White Park: Originating in the British Isles, White Park cattle are recognized for their distinctive appearance, often white with black points.
• Belted Galloway: Known for their distinctive white belt around the middle, Belted Galloways originated in Scotland and are well-adapted to harsh climates.
• Florida Cracker: Descending from Spanish cattle brought to Florida in the 16th century, these cattle are adapted to hot and humid climates.
• Shetland: Shetland cattle, native to the Shetland Islands in Scotland, are small in size and well-adapted to challenging environments.
• Vaynol: Originating in Wales, the Vaynol cattle are a small and hardy breed with a distinct appearance.
• Aubrac: Originating in France, Aubrac cattle are known for their adaptability and are often used for both meat and milk production.
• Jersey Cattle: Jerseys are known for their fawn color and white facial markings. They are medium-sized dairy cattle and are recognized for their ability to produce milk with high butterfat content.
• Guernsey Cattle: Guernseys are typically red and white in color. They are another dairy breed known for their high-quality milk, which often contains a high butterfat and protein content.

Personally, at the beginning of my GAPS journey, I could not tolerate any beef (including the best quality, pasture-raised beef). Luckily following No Plant GAPS and then GAPS diet changed that and now I can enjoy not only beef stock, but a juicy steak with lots of butter and bone marrow on it.

So if you are one of those who cannot tolerate beef yet, don’t lose hope, as you may be able to tolerate it in the future. Just follow No Plant GAPS without beef and consider introducing it, once your gut heals and seals enough to handle it.

If you feel you may benefit from No Plant GAPS, you can either complete my No Plant GAPS course (all content checked and verified by Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride) or contact me to see how I can help.