Neither pork ribs nor beef ribs are foods you should eat daily, but pork ribs are leaner and generally lower in calories than the average beef ribs. At the same time, beef ribs are richer in both iron and protein. But all of this is a generalization: the type of beef and pork ribs matters too. For rib style, baby back ribs are among the lowest in fat and calories- yet still flavorful. At the end of the day, perhaps a better approach is to choose the type and style of ribs you enjoy most and have them for special occasions, rather than focusing on what is healthy. If you do want to lighten up your ribs, skip the heavy sauces and go for a light dry rub.