You’ll enjoy this blog post…if you’re not a turkey.
I know what you’re thinking: Come on, everyone knows turkey is healthy. What is this, a throwaway post?
Well, folks know that turkey is white meat and on the leaner side, but it kind of ends there. Oh, but there are many more ways this bird does the body good.
Today, we carve out (see what I did there?) the answers.
1) A Healthy Source of Protein
Turkey is often touted as a healthy source of lean protein, and for good reason.
A single turkey breast can contain as much as 20 grams of protein, more than half of the recommended daily intake for most adults! We love protein because it’s essential for muscle growth and repair.
Now, I won’t claim that you can’t go wrong with a juicy slice of turkey, because you can if you’re not careful about portion sizes. While protein is crucial nutritional content, you don’t want to load up on unnecessary calories.
2) It’s Stuffed with B Vitamins
Who knew that turkeys are flying multivitamin packs?
Turkey is an excellent source of several different B vitamins, including thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and vitamin B6. These vitamins are essential for metabolism, energy production, and nervous system function.
So when you’re enjoying that delicious turkey dinner, remember that you’re also getting a healthy dose of nutrients that will help keep your body running like a well-oiled machine or something.
3) Reliable Source of Minerals
As any self-respecting Thanksgiving host knows, the turkey is not only the centerpiece of the meal, but also a veritable goldmine of minerals.
Turkey is rife with selenium, zinc, phosphorus and iron, which can support thyroid function, immunity, bone health and energy production.
4) Turkey is Low in Fat
As a lean protein, turkey is low in saturated fat and cholesterol, and one can argue that it’s a healthier option than other types of meat. In fact, turkey actually gives salmon a run for its money when it comes to omega 3 fatty acids.
Keep in mind, how you cook turkey–sauteed with olive oil rather than bacon fat–impacts saturated fat levels.
5) Known to be Heart Healthy
Turkey is often hailed as a healthy alternative to red meat.
But what about turkey’s effect on the heart? Turkey can be quite beneficial for heart health. The amino acid L-carnitine, which is found in turkey, has been shown to improve blood flow and decrease inflammation.
Turkey also contains CoQ10, an important nutrient that helps protect the heart from damage. In addition, the selenium in turkey can help to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
🚨SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT🚨
You know what goes nicely with turkey? Our Ultimate Autumn Gift Basket, replete with Everton butter toffee pretzels, cheese straws, mulling spices, ginger cookies, mixed nuts, and so much more.
After reaping the health benefits of turkey, you can reward yourself with treats!
About BasketWorks
BasketWorks is a woman-owned gift basket company located in the north suburbs of Chicago (specifically Northbrook, IL) since 1997. We are proud to offer a variety of gifts and gift baskets appropriate for all occasions. Each of our packages is built to order, allowing for customization at no additional cost to our clients. Contact us today! Please subscribe to our blog post and follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn.