Benefits Of Turkey

The domestic turkey is a descendant of the wild turkey and is local to the United States. Turkey is a very popular meat, especially among those who prefer a low fat diet. It contains just 1 gram of fat per ounce of flesh. Turkey is a rich source of folic acids, vitamins and minerals like zinc and potassium, which keep the blood cholesterol levels down and is also believed to guard against birth defects, cancer and heart diseases. Turkey meat is extremely beneficial for health, as it regulates blood pressure, boosts the immune system and facilitates the processes of healing. Read on to explore the immense health benefits of turkey.

Health Benefits Of Eating Turkey

Turkey is a very rich source of protein, niacin, vitamin B6 and the amino acid tryptothan. Apart from these nutrients, it is also contains zinc and vitamin B12. The skinless white meat of turkey is low on fat and proves to be an excellent source of high protein.
Turkey also contains anti-cancer properties. It is a very good source of the trace mineral selenium, which is an essential component required for thyroid hormone metabolism, antioxidant defense systems, and immune function. Scientific studies have suggested that selenium intake can bring down cancer incidence.
Light, skinless roasted turkey is low on saturated fat and total fat. It also contains less cholesterol than chicken, pork or beef.
Turkey is believed to have mood enhancing properties. It contains tryptothan, which produces serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps improve your mood. Tryptothan also plays an important role in strengthening the immune system, as suggested by scientific evidence.
The vitamin B6 and niacin present in turkey are essential for energy production in the body. Niacin is also important for converting the proteins, fats and carbohydrates in the body into usable energy.
Being a rich source of vitamin B6, turkey facilitates methyl donation in the basic cellular process of ‘methylation’. Through this process, methyl groups are transferred from one molecule to another, which results in the formation of a wide range of active molecules that are important for the body.
The tryptothan present in turkey is effective in treating chronic insomnia. It promotes sleep and is therefore, recommended to those suffering from insomnia.

Caution

Turkey contains purines, the naturally occurring substances commonly found in plants, animals and humans. Some people are susceptible to problems related to purines and health ailments can be experienced in case of its excessive intake. Purines can be broken down by the body to form uric acid and excess accumulation of purines will lead to excess accumulation of uric acid in the body. This may result in the formation of kidney stones and even lead to a condition called ‘gout’.

Cooking Tips

Turkey should not come in contact with raw foods, especially the ones you are going to serve uncooked.
Turkey is very sensitive to heat and therefore, if your turkey recipe requires marinating, do so in the refrigerator. Exposure to heat can increase the chances of spoilage.

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