It’s no secret that a slice of Jamón de Bellota 100% Ibérico is one of life’s greatest culinary pleasures. With it’s gorgeous marbling, beautiful color, and intense flavor, it is without a doubt the shining edible star of Spain, elevating every meal.
But aside from the flavor and pleasure Jamón Ibérico offers, there are so many other surprising benefits. It’s a staple in the Mediterranean diet in the Iberian peninsula and thus, plays an important role in the popularity of this healthy style of eating, drinking, and living. That’s why we’re digging into the science of this national delicacy, and revealing some of the fantastic health benefits of eating Jamón Ibérico de Bellota.
Quality Food Starts with a Quality Product
The Mediterranean diet is one of the best ways to eat, simply because the raw materials are so pure and so high caliber. Iberian pigs are no exception to this level of quality. They live an exceptionally healthy life, where they spend their days grazing freely on the grasses of the Spanish meadows, and feasting on seasonal acorns. They eat only the purest and most natural ingredients, and live humanely as animals should.
These factors help the meat develop a complete protein that is full of healthy fats and rich in antioxidants from those natural grasses. Their acorn-heavy diet also affects the development of oleic acid, a unique fatty acid that has certain health benefits.
Jamón Ibérico Can Reduce Bad Cholesterol
Jamón Ibérico helps the body produce HDL (good cholesterol) in the body. It’s also rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, which can reduce LDL (bad cholesterol) levels in the blood.
There are numerous studies involving elderly participants who consumed Jamón Ibérico de Bellota in their diets. These studies have found significant decreases in plasma cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL cholesterol.
Jamón Ibérico is Rich in Antioxidants
Scientific studies have concluded that consuming Jamón Ibérico de Bellota can help increase the concentration of antioxidants in the body. These antioxidants come from the natural grasses the pigs feed on while they graze in the Spanish pastures. A diet rich in antioxidants can help prevent cardiovascular disease.
Jamón Ibérico is a Great Source of Protein
Another benefit of eating Jamón Ibérico is that it’s an excellent source of protein. Jamón Ibérico de Bellota contains essential amino acids that are absolutely essential in a hypocaloric diet, or for those who are lacking nutrients. That’s why it is highly recommended for certain groups of the population that may have more specific nutritional needs, like children, the elderly, or those with certain illnesses. Additionally, the presence of animal protein in a diet can help absorb vitamins and minerals like iron.
Jamón Ibérico is Rich in Minerals
Jamón Ibérico de Bellota is an excellent source of iron and zinc. It also has a high concentration of phosphorus and potassium, and significant amounts of other minerals like magnesium and selenium, which can help with anti-ageing.
Jamón Ibérico is High in Vitamins
Jamón Ibérico de Bellota is also a great source of vitamins. It’s rich in certain vitamins like B1 (thiamine), which helps control appetite and the nervous system. Jamón also contains B2 (niacin), B6, and B12 vitamins.
Jamón Ibérico Contains Bioactive Peptides
There are certain chemical reactions that happen in the curing or ageing process of a Jamón Ibérico de Bellota. In these chemical reactions we find bioactive peptides (antihypertensives and antioxidants). Bioactive peptides improve the immune response and are also quick satiaters. In other words, a few slices of Jamón Ibérico de Bellota can leave you full, happy, and healthy.
Jamón Ibérico is Recommended for a Hypocaloric Diet
Jamón Ibérico de Bellota is a high-calorie food. To put it in perspective, 100g (about 3.5 oz) contains 335 calories[1] [2] . So a serving of 30g (about 1 oz) of Jamón Ibérico contains about 100 calories.
Jamón Ibérico is a Heart Healthy Food
Like we mentioned before, Jamón Ibérico de Bellota contains oleic acid. This fatty acid can help reduce bad cholesterol, increase good cholesterol, and reduce inflammation, all of which can lead to a healthy heart.
According to certain Spanish community legislation, Jamón Ibérico de Bellota can be considered a natural source of vitamins and minerals—like riboflavin, thymine, and B12. And it also contains significant amounts of micronutrients.
Jamón for Your Health and Your Palate
From the pasture to the table, Jamón Ibérico de Bellota is crafted with your health and palate in mind. Spanish farmers and ham masters work diligently to ensure they’re producing the best quality product possible—they’ve been perfecting this artisan craft for centuries. And with so many unique health benefits and unparalleled flavors, it’s no wonder why Jamón Ibérico is a staple on the Mediterranean table.
In other words, there’s really no excuse not to add Jamón Ibérico de Bellota to your diet. Take a look at the COVAP shop to find some of the best cured ham in the world. You can find luxurious packs of Sliced Jamón Ibérico 100% de Bellota, or you can treat yourself to the iconic Whole Jamón 100% Ibérico de Bellota and invite all your friends and family over to try a taste of Spain.
Jamón Ibérico is the ultimate privilege for our health and for our palates. Add it to your dinner table for the complete Mediterranean diet experience.
