Why Do We Like Meat? A Brief Scientific Look at Our Carnivorous Heritage
Despite the rise of vegetarian and vegan diets, it cannot be denied that humans have a passion for meat, be it steak, chicken, lamb, or wild game. This passion is not only natural, but it’s also literally in human genes! A human gene known as apoE has been attributed to cravings for meat. Here is a look at the history behind this gene:
The First Mutation
ApoE gene has undergone two mutations over time. The first time this happened was well over 500,000 years ago. For millennia, humans had eaten meat to stay alive, but found themselves at risk of becoming violently ill from the same pathogens that are found in raw meat today. As fire had not yet been discovered, humans were not able to cook the pathogens out. The mutation provided an immunity boost to help red blood cells recognize and attack the deadly microbes in ingested raw meat. As an added bonus, the mutation also made it easier for the body to defend itself against chronic inflammation, a viciously painful condition in which microbial infections destroy tissue.
The Second Mutation
While the first mutation was certainly a step in the right direction, humans were still far from resistant to pathogens and microbial infections from raw meat. A second mutation occurred about 226,000 years ago that made people much more resistant to meat’s harmful effects. Humans had long been using fire to cook food, but they were still susceptible to heart conditions caused by fat and cholesterol. This second mutation gave the body the ability to process fats and flush cholesterol from the bloodstream.
At Christner’s Del Frisco’s Prime Steak and Lobster, we offer the juiciest and tastiest steaks to satisfy your meat cravings! From tender filet mignons to the freshest seafood, we are proud to serve Orlando’s best dinners. Call us at (407) 329-4188 to make a reservation.
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