Turkey, good for the body and mind

2025-11-24 07:51:00, Shëndeti CNA

If you're planning a turkey feast for Thanksgiving, you should also know about the many health benefits it offers.

Turkey meat is packed with protein that helps build muscle and essential vitamins and minerals that boost immunity, mood, and energy.

And no, turkey is not responsible for post-meal drowsiness. This is an old myth, because turkey contains tryptophan, an amino acid that helps regulate sleep, has been debunked by experts.

Turkey doesn't contain more tryptophan than other foods like chicken, beef, nuts, and cheese. But drinking alcohol and eating too many other high-carb Thanksgiving staples, such as potatoes, breads, stuffing, and desserts, can make you sleepy.

After you've enjoyed the main meal, use the leftovers for salads, soups, and sandwiches to maximize benefits throughout the week.

According to EatingWell, here's why turkey is nutritionally beneficial:

• Protein

Turkey is known for its high-quality protein, making it an excellent choice for the health-conscious. Just one 3-ounce serving of turkey provides about 24 grams of protein, which is vital for building and maintaining muscle tissue, repairing cells, and supporting a strong metabolism.

Turkey protein is considered "complete," meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids that the body cannot produce on its own. These amino acids are needed for growth, immune defense, and the synthesis of important hormones and enzymes.

A diet rich in protein helps regulate appetite by increasing feelings of fullness and curbing cravings, which can support healthy weight management. In addition, turkey protein supports bone strength and helps stabilize blood sugar levels.

Cognitively, the amino acids found in turkey protein help produce neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which are linked to improved mood and mental clarity. By enjoying turkey not just at holiday meals, but throughout the week in a variety of dishes, you can take advantage of these protein benefits for both body and mind.

• Vitamin B

The same 3-ounce serving of turkey contains up to 42% of the Daily Value (DV) of vitamin B6 and 33% of the DV of B12. These B vitamins are essential for producing energy, supporting brain function, and maintaining healthy red blood cells. Since your body cannot produce B vitamins, it is essential to consume them through food. Low levels of B12 can lead to anemia, which can cause fatigue, weight loss, and depression.

• Immunity support

Adding turkey soup to your menu during cold and flu season gives your immune system a boost, says registered dietitian Frances Largeman-Roth. The iron and zinc found in turkey protect against germs and viruses. These nutrients also help white blood cells fight infection.

• Colin

Largeman-Roth adds that a serving of turkey contains 76 milligrams of choline, an essential nutrient important for brain health and memory.

• Tryptophan

Turkey is often known for its tryptophan content, an essential amino acid that plays a key role in the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter linked to mood regulation and relaxation. The tryptophan from turkey, combined with the carbohydrates in your meal, can support your body’s natural sleep cycle and contribute to the feeling of calm that is often experienced after a Thanksgiving feast. Just don’t eat or drink too much, or you’ll feel very sleepy.

• Selenium

One serving of turkey contains 50% of the selenium you need each day to protect cells from free radical damage. Selenium also supports thyroid function and reproductive health./ CNA