Gobble, gobble! Turkey day is upon us this week and I for one can’t wait to chow down on some yummy roasted turkey. I know that Thanksgiving often gets a bad rap for over indulgence but the meal can be healthy if you build your plate around some of the more healthy sides. (Think salad, roasted vegetables a,d non creamy soups.) For those carnivores out there, making slow roasted turkey your main dish can be a great way to keep your calorie consumption in check and to provide your body with some of the vitamins and minerals it needs to stay healthy.
A three ounce serving of turkey breast has only 88 calories, less than 2 grams of fat and over 14 grams of protein.
Turkey contains the amino acid tryptophan, which produces serotonin (an important neurotransmitter for mental health) and it plays an important role in strengthening the immune system.
Turkey’s high protein content will help keep post meal insulin levels in check.
Pasture raised turkey is a good source of Omega-3 fatty acids, important for brain and body health.
Turkey is a rich source of B Vitamins, essential for converting food into fuel for energy throughout the day.
In terms of minerals, turkey is richest in selenium and provides over 60% of the DRI in a 4-ounce serving. Turkey is also loaded with zinc, copper, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, and iron.
