The many health benefits of eating turkey include:
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 is 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 defence 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.
For those watching their fat intake, stick to white turkey meat. Bake, broil or saute in as little oil as possible, using broth, lemon or orange juice as a basting sauce. Turkey can be cooked in a variety of ways and there are many turkey recipes you can try for home, lunches or entertaining.