There are certain people who change the way we think about health—pioneers who question the system, challenge outdated beliefs, and bring powerful healing solutions to light.
Dr. Joseph Mercola is one of them.
For decades, he’s been a leader in functional and preventive medicine, showing people how to work with their bodies, not against them. He’s built a library of research that has shaped the way millions approach nutrition, metabolism, and longevity. He was one of the first to bring root-cause healing into mainstream conversation—long before it was popular.
But not everyone likes when you challenge the status quo.
During COVID, he was personally attacked, had his bank accounts frozen and his work has been censored, restricted, and erased from major platforms—a glaring reminder that important health information is being controlled, hidden, and removed from public view.
And yet, the truth doesn’t just disappear. It finds those who are ready for it.
I’m one of those people. I’ve followed Dr. Mercola for years, I respect his decades of research and willingness to challenge conventional narratives.
Recently, he published an article about an underrated cut of meat that supports metabolism, joint health, and longevity. His research caught my attention because not only have I personally preferred this cut over steak for years, but I’m deeply committed to supporting my metabolism and aging body in the most natural, effective way possible.
I’ve always valued this cut for its nutrient density, rich flavor, and affordability, but his article lays out the science behind why it’s especially beneficial for midlife women—making it a staple in any hormone-supportive diet.
I believe this information matters. It shouldn’t be hidden. It shouldn’t be hard to access.
So today, I’m sharing my encapsulation of his article, along with my personal take on why this cut deserves a place on your plate—and how to make the most of it.
Shanks: A Nutrient-Dense Alternative to Traditional Steaks
Dr. Mercola highlights shanks as a superior protein source for those looking to support metabolism, balance hormones, and improve joint health. Unlike traditional steaks, which are high in muscle meat proteins, shanks offer a more balanced amino acid profile, providing an abundance of collagen and glycine.
Here are the key takeaways from his article:
- Collagen-Rich for Skin, Joints, and Gut Health
Shanks are a natural source of collagen, a protein essential for maintaining skin elasticity, joint lubrication, strong bones, and gut integrity. As we age, collagen production declines, making it even more important to get it from whole food sources. - Balances Protein Intake for Metabolic Health
Modern diets tend to be heavy in muscle meats like steak and chicken breast, which provide amino acids that, when consumed in excess, can contribute to inflammation and metabolic imbalances. Shanks, on the other hand, contain higher levels of glycine, an amino acid that supports metabolism and counters some of the inflammatory effects of muscle meats. - Supports Energy and Hormone Regulation
Glycine plays a critical role in regulating metabolism, improving mitochondrial function, and reducing oxidative stress. In simple terms, it helps the body convert fuel into energy more efficiently. This is especially important for women in midlife, when hormonal shifts can make metabolism feel sluggish. - Traditional Diets Prioritized Collagen-Rich Cuts
Historically, cultures around the world incorporated nose-to-tail eating, consuming all parts of the animal, including collagen-dense cuts like shanks. These diets provided a balanced intake of amino acids that supported longevity and overall well-being. Today, however, we tend to focus primarily on muscle meats, missing out on the unique benefits that collagen-rich cuts provide.
My Take on Shanks and Why I Prefer Them Over Steaks
While Dr. Mercola’s article provides strong research on why shanks are an excellent dietary choice, I’ve personally valued them for years—not just for their nutritional benefits, but also for their rich flavor and versatility in the kitchen.
If you’ve ever been to my place for dinner, there’s a good chance I served you 48-hour sous vide lamb shanks. It’s one of my favorites—deeply nourishing, easy to prepare, and it feels luxurious.
Food should be more than just fuel. It should support your body and be deeply enjoyable—and for me, shanks check both boxes.
I take a food-first approach to collagen intake, prioritizing whole food sources over supplements whenever possible. Bone broth is often recommended—and it’s a great source—but I also incorporate collagen-rich foods like shanks because they provide both high-quality protein and the benefits of collagen in one meal.
One of the key reasons I love and recommend shanks, especially for women struggling with stubborn weight, fatigue, and hormone fluctuations, is because they support the body’s natural balance rather than working against it. Unlike conventional protein choices that may lead to amino acid imbalances, shanks provide a more well-rounded nutrient profile that works in harmony with the body’s needs.
How to Incorporate Shanks Into Your Diet
The key to preparing shanks is slow cooking. The collagen in shanks needs low, slow heat to break down into gelatin, making it more bioavailable and easier for the body to absorb.
Here is how I like to prepare them:
- Choose high-quality shanks – Opt for grass-fed beef, lamb, or pork shanks to maximize nutrient density. I personally don’t eat pork and prefer lamb shanks.
- Cook low and slow – Braising shanks for several hours in broth or aromatics allows the collagen to break down into a rich, flavorful gelatin.
- Pair with nutrient-dense sides – Serving shanks with root vegetables, leafy greens, or fermented foods complements their nutrient profile and supports digestion.
If you are new to cooking shanks, I have put together a simple braising method for beef, lamb, and pork shanks here: Braised Shank Two Ways.
Final Thoughts
Dr. Mercola’s research reinforces what I have believed for years—shanks are one of the most underrated, yet highly beneficial, cuts of meat for metabolic health, hormone balance, and overall vitality.
This isn’t about choosing shanks over steaks, but rather about bringing balance back to your protein intake. By incorporating collagen-rich cuts like shanks, you’re supporting joint health, skin elasticity, energy production, and metabolic function—all critical for women navigating midlife.
One of the key things I emphasize with my clients is the importance of variety—your body thrives on a diverse range of nutrients. Even if your mind is satisfied with the same rotation of foods, your body craves diversity. Including a mix of collagen-rich proteins, muscle meats, and nutrient-dense whole foods gives your body what it truly needs to function at its best.
If you’ve never cooked with shanks before, I encourage you to give them a try. Their flavor, texture, and deep nutritional value make them a worthy addition to your meals.
If you try my recipe, let me know how it goes—did it impress your guests, or were you surprised by how simple it was to prepare? I’d love to hear your experience.
Have you cooked with shanks before? Will you be adding them to your meals? Let me know your thoughts!
