Bison

🦬 What is Bison?
Bison (often called buffalo meat) is a lean red meat known for its slightly sweet flavor. It is rich in protein, iron, zinc, and B vitamins, and is commonly used in burgers, steaks, chilis, and stews.

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🤔 Why Might Sensitivity to Bison Occur?
Changes in how someone feels after eating bison may be connected to natural components found in the meat, such as:

Natural Proteins

• Bison contains proteins such as myoglobin and tropomyosin, which may feel heavier or more difficult for some people to digest.

• These proteins can differ slightly from those found in more familiar meats, which might affect how the body responds.

Naturally Occurring Histamines

• Bison—especially when aged, stored, or processed—may contain higher histamine levels, which some individuals may be more sensitive to.

Iron Content

• Bison is naturally high in heme iron. In some people, larger amounts of iron-rich foods may feel difficult to process.

Fat Structure

• Although lean, bison’s fat composition differs from beef or pork and may digest differently for individuals with sensitive digestion.

Diet and Farming Practices

• Bison are typically grass-fed, and their varied diet may influence the natural compounds present in the meat.

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🛠️ What Can I Do About It?

• Remove bison from meals for 8 weeks to observe changes.

• After 8 weeks, reintroduce bison gradually to understand your personal tolerance.

• Choose more familiar proteins—such as beef, chicken, or turkey—during the avoidance period.

• Avoid bison jerky or cured bison products, as they may contain added seasonings or preservatives.

• If reintroducing, choose fresh, minimally processed bison cuts.

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💊 Supportive General Supplements
Some individuals choose the following wellness supports to promote digestion and comfort:

• Digestive Enzymes (with Protease): Support the breakdown of meat proteins.

• Probiotics: Encourage a balanced digestive environment.

• Curcumin or Omega-3s: Support a healthy inflammatory response.

• DAO (Diamine Oxidase): Commonly used to support histamine metabolism.

• Balanced Multivitamins: May help support nutrient balance, including iron, if someone is adjusting dietary sources.

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🌟 Why Might Sensitivity to Bison Occur but Not Other Meats?
A different response to bison compared to beef, chicken, or pork may relate to:

Protein Differences

• Bison proteins may differ slightly in form or concentration compared to proteins in beef or chicken.

Histamine Levels

• Naturally occurring histamine levels in bison may be higher—especially if the meat is aged—compared to fresher, lower-histamine meats like chicken or turkey.

Fat Digestibility

• Bison’s lean yet distinct fat profile may feel heavier or process differently than the fat in beef or poultry.

Diet-Influenced Compounds

• Grass-fed animals naturally accumulate different plant-related compounds than grain-fed livestock, which might influence how their meat feels to the body.

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🍽️ Popular Dishes Containing Bison

• Bison burgers

• Bison steaks

• Bison chili

• Bison meatloaf

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🍽️ Alternatives (If Tolerated)

• Beef

• Chicken

• Turkey

• Venison

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