During the Halloween season, I wrote about all of the health benefits that come with pumpkin in How Eating Pumpkin Benefits You. Now, with Thanksgiving being a mere few days away (YAAAYYY!!), I figured I would write about one of this food-coma-filled holiday's most beloved traditions...turkey! So, upon some further investigation, I compiled a list of health facts pertaining to the official bird of Thanksgiving. I hope you enjoy learning about what you'll most likely be indulging in a ton of on Thursday! Happy Thanksgiving, friends!
1. Great Source of Protein
A 2-ounce serving of turkey contains about 16.5 grams of protein. As we know, proteins are essential nutrients for our bodies. This is why vegetarians have to be mindful and add alternative proteins to their diets, after removing meat. They are one of the building blocks of body tissue, and can also serve as a fuel source. Too much protein definitely isn't healthy; but, a lack of it can cause growth failure, loss of muscle mass, decreased immunity, and weakening of the heart and respiratory system (https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/what-...).
2. A Low-Fat Meat
Unlike lamb, beef, and pork, turkey is a "white" meat. The other previously-listed meats are called "red" meats. In general, "red" meats have more cholesterol and saturated fats than "white" meats.
3. A Good Source of Potassium
That's right, your Thanksgiving turkey also contains the magnificent mineral bananas are known for! A 2-ounce serving of turkey is home to 169 milligrams of potassium. That is about half the amount of potassium found in one banana, which is one of the best sources of potassium. But why is a proper potassium consumption level important, you ask? By amping up consumption of potassium-rich foods, public health officials say, we cut the risk of developing high blood pressure (http://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2013/01/31/170...).
4. Lowers Cholesterol Levels
Due to its high levels of protein and low of saturated fat, turkey is a great aid to combatting high cholesterol! Your liver produces more cholesterol when you eat a diet high in saturated and trans fats. So, eating turkey instead of a hamburger or steak helps lower your cholesterol level!
5. Boosts Your Immune System
Turkey contains the amino acid tryptophan. This is the chemical responsible for making us feel a post-Thanksgiving-feast drowsiness. However, it also plays a pivotal role in boosting the immune system. Amino acids, like tryptophan, help to regulate your immune system and keep it functioning well.
Make one of the awesome recipes below to serve with your Thanksgiving feast! Click on the image to be directed to the recipe.
More from Mary Ellen:
4 Ways Investing in Houseplants Can Help You
How Eating Pumpkin Benefits You
