Hamburgers are the quintessential American dish, found in high-end restaurants and fast-food joints across the country. While they’ve gotten a bad reputation in recent years, the humble burger offers a variety of health benefits that can improve organ function and even help you lose weight. Below are a few ways dropping by your favorite burger restaurant may actually be good for you.

What Are the Health Benefits of Hamburgers?

1. Increased Iron Levels

Iron is an essential nutrient, responsible for moving oxygen through your body, boosting your immune system, and aiding in digestion. Hamburgers contain high levels of heme iron, which is highly bioavailable and easy for your body to process.

Adult men need approximately eight milligrams (mg) of iron a day, while women need around 18. A quarter-pound burger of 90% lean meat contains over three mg, which accounts for a substantial portion of your recommended daily intake.

2. Healthy Doses of Protein

Every cell in your body needs protein to produce new tissue, regular hormone levels, and fight off disease. As an added benefit, protein also keeps you feeling full for longer, which can help with weight loss.

Most dishes served up at a local burger restaurant boast more than 20 grams of protein, which is nearly half of the daily recommendation. For the best health results, choose a low-fat option made from at least 90% lean meat.

3. Maximum Vitamin B-12 Intake

Vitamin B-12 is vital for forming new blood cells, responsible for carrying oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. A B-12 deficiency can cause deformed red blood cells, which can leave you feeling tired, lightheaded, and susceptible to gastrointestinal problems. The average quarter-pound hamburger includes almost three micrograms of B-12, giving you all you need in a single meal.

The next time you’re craving a burger, don’t feel guilty about ordering this protein-packed meal. As Rochester, NY’s favorite burger restaurant, Steve T. Hots & Potatoes serves up fantastic meals 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Each of their meals is made with special family recipes by a staff who takes pride in serving up the best sandwiches in the area. Visit their website to browse their menu or call (585) 429-6388 with any questions.