A Thanksgiving turkey with all the trimmings and rich sauces may not seem like the peak image of health, but turkey meat actually contains a whole range of benefits for your body.
Read on to learn more.
It’s Lean
While all meat contains some fat, turkey is naturally lean. A 100-gram serving of turkey contains roughly 5.5 grams of fat. Of that fat, less than a third is saturated fat. Removing the skin of your turkey portion is a great way to cut down on fat even further.
It’s High Protein
Turkey is a high-protein meat and can offer you more nutrition for less calories. With up to 29 grams of protein per every 100 grams of turkey, you can be sure of getting your daily protein without the unhealthy fats that often come with it.
It’s Rich in B-Vitamins
Turkey meat is packed with B-vitamins, including B12, B3, and B6. These vitamins are an essential source of energy. What’s more, they can help with immune functions, blood cell creation, and B12 can even help promote better brain function.
It’s Rich in Minerals
When it comes to turkey meat, the darker the meat, the richer the minerals. The selenium in turkey helps boosts your immune system and works as an antioxidant. There’s also plenty of Niacin, which can help lower inflammation and improve your blood circulation.
It’s Low-Glycemic
Turkey is a low-GI food, and a good source of healthy protein and fat. Its lean nature means less sugar spikes from unhealthier fat. This is good news for diabetics, who can manage their blood sugar while getting much-needed protein.
It’s Full of Healthy Cholesterol
There are two types of cholesterol. LDL cholesterol is the first that springs to mind: It’s unhealthy and can clog your arteries. However, less well-known is HDL cholesterol, its healthier cousin, which improves circulation and lowers the risk of heart disease. Turkey meat is a good source of HDL cholesterol, and can help negate any LDL cholesterol in your body.
