“Why am I so tired lately?”…After eating this cut of pork, did your body change?

When people think of pork, many first think of pork belly. Although there is frequent debate about its high fat content, plenty of people still seek out this cut for its rich flavor. However, it is hard to call pork belly a “healthy food.” The fatty portion, which is high in saturated fat, is not good for blood and vascular health. The fact that it is usually eaten grilled is another drawback. Is there a way to eat pork a bit more “healthfully”? Instead of pork belly, try other cuts such as the hind leg.

Why choose hind leg instead of pork belly?

According to data from the National Institute of Crop Science, when a 110 kg pig is typically slaughtered, about 54 kg of meat is produced. Of this, the hind leg accounts for the largest portion at 14.7 kg. Next come pork belly, foreleg, loin, shoulder (Boston butt), ribs, and tenderloin. Pork hind leg is a high-protein, low-fat food. One downside is that it can become tough when stir-fried over high heat. To prevent this, it is best to slice it thinly or mince it for cooking. Cook it briefly, or simmer it gently while adding moisture.

Want to feel more energized after eating meat?…“This is why”

Pork is relatively high in calories, but compared with beef or chicken, it has a higher proportion of unsaturated fatty acids such as linoleic acid, so its cholesterol content is lower. In particular, one advantage is that it is rich in vitamin B1. Vitamin B1 helps break down carbohydrates (sugars). If vitamin B1 is lacking, carbohydrates are not broken down efficiently, and fatigue-related substances such as lactic acid can build up. This can contribute to fatigue that leaves the body feeling drained.

Why is vitamin B1 important?

Nutrients used as the body’s energy include carbohydrates (sugars), protein, and fat. Among these, vitamin B1 is essential when carbohydrates are converted into energy. Many Koreans get most of their energy from carbohydrates in rice, a staple food, so getting enough vitamin B1 is important for health. Carbohydrates are an energy source not only for the body but also for the brain. If vitamin B1 is deficient, reduced concentration and forgetfulness may occur.

1.5× more protein than pork belly, with calories at about one-third

The recommended daily intake of vitamin B1 for adults is 1.1–1.3 mg. About 120 g of pork meets the daily requirement. Pork is rich in high-quality protein, making it one of the best dietary sources of vitamin B1. Compared with beef, it contains about 10 times more vitamin B1, making it an excellent meat for replenishing vitamin B1. Eating pork with lemon may have a synergistic effect, helping reduce fatigue and support energy production. Hind leg meat has 1.5 times more protein than pork belly, and its calories are about one-third of pork belly.