When it comes to nutrition, beef has a competetive advantage.

Zinc boosts the immune system, helps wounds heal quickly and appetite control. Beef is the number one source of zinc in the American diet. A 3-ounce serving of beef provides 39% of the zinc most people need in a day.

Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency in the United States. Iron helps carry oxygen to body cells and tissues, assists in making new red blood cells, aids in brain development and supports the immune system - all to keep you healthy. Beef is the number three source of iron in the American diet following iron-enriched breads and cereals. However, the iron in red meat is more completely absorbed by the body than the iron found in bread, cereal and other plant products.

Protein plays many roles that help keep you energized and support your body functions. You need to eat enough protein daily to support growth and maintenance of tissues, and to replace proteins that are broken down by the body. Proteins from animal sources, such as beef, are high-quality or complete proteins. Vegetables and grains also contain protein, but in lesser amounts. One 3-ounce serving of beef provides 50% of the protein recommended daily.