What Are Living Organisms that Human Beings Consume in Their Diets?

Beef

Beef makes up a considerable part of the human diet, with Americans consuming more than 25 percent of the world's beef. Beef provides good sources of zinc, iron and B vitamins, vitamins E and K, and calcium, while also providing humans with a source of protein and creatine. Six ounces of beef provide more than 60 percent of the daily value of protein. However, consuming large quantities of red meat like beef can lead to cardiovascular disease and certain forms of cancer when not eaten in conjunction with a well-balanced diet and exercise.

Pork is high in vitamins B1, B6 and B12 as well as magnesium, phosphorous, potassium, zinc and sodium. Pork also contains a great amount of protein, though considerably less than beef. The amount of protein and fat in a serving of pork varies widely depending on the cut. While a great source of vitamins and protein, pork has been known to cause a number of food-borne illnesses when not properly cooked such as trichinosis as well as E. coli and Salmonella poisoning.

Poultry includes the meat of various birds such as chicken, geese, duck, ostrich and pheasant. Poultry contains a great deal of protein along with vitamins B12, B6 and D. Due to its widespread availability and versatility, chicken makes up one of the world's largest sources of protein, providing almost 70 percent of the daily value in as little as 4 ounces. Chicken is considered to be the leanest of meats, containing far less saturated fat than beef. Chicken also contains a high amount of niacin or B3, a vitamin thought to reduce the risk of cancer.

Fish, whether served cooked or raw, provides a wealth of vitamins and minerals essential to the human diet. Fish, particularly fatty fishes such as salmon and mackerel, contains high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D, both of which help improve cognitive functions, leading to the claim of fish being a "brain food." Omega-3 fatty acids are also thought to lessen the risk of heart disease. Fish is also a good source of protein, vitamin A and vitamin E. Because of industrial pollutants, fish can contain high levels of mercury that can be harmful to developing fetuses and very young children.