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Why Turkey Is Good For You: Turkey is the centerpiece for Thanksgiving in most homes and it should be on the table year round. Why? Turkey is loaded with vitamins and minerals, making it an ideal, nutrient-dense form of high-quality protein. That means it’s good for your heart too. Here are some of the other benefits:
- It can help with diabetes management. A 2023 randomized trial found that both high protein and normal protein diets helped individuals with type 2 diabetes in improving glucose control and weight loss.
- It may aid in weight loss. Studies show that consuming poultry may facilitate weight loss and weight management due to its high protein content
- It can reduce the risk of heart disease. A study published in the journal Circulation found that swapping red and red processed meats for healthier protein sources helped lower the risk of heart disease. Consuming poultry reduced the risk by 19%. Additionally, a nutrient found in dark meat turkey, called taurine, has been found in studies to help reduce the risk of heart disease.
- It may help reduce the risk of certain cancers: A further study found similar benefits in reducing the risk of breast cancer when swapping poultry for red meat. Turkey also contains a high content of selenium, a trace element associated with lower risks for certain cancers. Finally, studies have associated white meat (such as turkey breast) with being moderately protective or neutral regarding cancer risk.
- It's good for the planet.