Turkey meat is the meat obtained from domesticated turkeys or wild turkeys. The meat is also referred to as just turkey, and is popular poultry dish in many parts of the world.
Turkey is traditionally consumed in many holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas, but it is still used to prepare a variety of meals.
This article discusses the nutritional value and health benefits of eating turkey meat.
Nutritional Value Of Turkey Meat
Turkey meat is highly nutritious. It is low in fat and calories but high in protein. Turkey meat contains all nine essential amino acids, which can be used to make complete proteins.
It is also rich in vitamins and minerals such as B, iron, magnesium, and zinc.
100 grams of whole roasted turkey meat contains 189 calories. Turkey is particularly high in vitamin B6, vitamin B12, choline,
8 Health Benefits Of Eating Turkey Meat
The health benefits of eating turkey meat include:
1. Rich in essential vitamins and minerals
Turkey contains all the essential amino acids your body needs. Turkey is high in selenium, an antioxidant mineral that may help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Turkey breast is an excellent source of vitamin B6, which helps support a healthy immune system and assist with energy production.
It’s also a good source of niacin, selenium, and zinc. The niacin content helps to convert food into energy and helps in brain functionality.
Also, turkey contains high amounts of selenium, a mineral that helps support healthy thyroid function and may reduce cancer risk.
2. Excellent protein content
Turkey meat is an excellent source of protein. It contains all nine essential amino acids the body needs to function correctly.
The protein content in turkey meat can vary from 24% to 28%. This makes it an excellent source of protein for those looking to lose weight or build lean muscle.
Protein helps build and repair tissues in your body and maintains enzymes that help with energy metabolism.
Protein also helps build muscle mass, which can help prevent a loss of muscle mass when you’re older. It also helps you feel full longer after eating, so you don’t feel hungry quickly.
3. Great low-calorie food
Turkey meat has less than half the calories compared to other meats such as beef or pork. 85 grams serving of cooked turkey breast has only 160 calories, while 85 gram serving of cooked beef brisket has over 300 calories!
Because of its high protein content, turkey is also a good food for bodybuilding.
4. Helps to maintain a healthy weight
This makes turkey an excellent choice for people trying to lose weight or control their cholesterol levels.
A 100 gram serving of roasted skinless turkey breast contains only 190 calories, 7 grams of fat, and 29 grams of protein.
5. Boosts mood and relaxation
Turkey contains tryptophan, an essential amino acid that helps promote relaxation by increasing serotonin levels in your brain.
Tryptophan is converted into 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), which then converts into serotonin within your body.
Serotonin regulates your mood and helps you feel relaxed, reducing anxiety and making it easier to fall asleep at night and stay asleep once you’re there.
6. Iron-rich food
Turkey is rich in iron, which helps red blood cells carry oxygen to your tissues and organs. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, which causes fatigue and weakness.
Additionally, iron helps produce new cells throughout your body and supports your immune system by helping white blood cells fight infections.
A single serving of cooked ground turkey provides 23 percent of the recommended daily value for iron.
For example, a serving size of 90 grams contains 2 milligrams (mg) of iron, which is 24 percent of the RDI for men ages 19 through 50 years old (8 mg/day) and 20 percent for women ages 19 through 50 years old (18 mg/day).
7. Reduces your risk of deadly diseases
Turkey meat contains choline which helps to reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s Disease, dementia, and stroke.
It also contains carnitine which helps to lower blood pressure and improve heart health by improving blood flow through the body.
8. Boosts blood production
Turkey meat is especially rich in vitamins B6 and B12. These two vitamins play a role in many important bodily functions, such as metabolism and the development of nerve cells.
However, vitamins B6 and B12 are crucial for producing red blood cells. Hence, eating turkey meat enhances blood production in the body.
Conclusion
Turkey is an excellent source of protein and other nutrients but can be high in calories. To ensure you enjoy the health benefits of eating turkey meat, eat it in moderation.
Turkey is suitable to be consumed by all age groups. If you are allergic to turkey meat, you must consult a doctor before consuming it.
Naturally cooked turkey is the best. Please stay away from processed turkey meat as they are high sodium and have additives and preservatives which might not be healthy for the body.
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Collins Nwokolo is a human physiologist, writer and health enthusiast. He loves writing helpful articles on health and fitness, which he enjoys sharing with everyone.
