Nutritious Turkey

Turkey belongs to the group of high-protein foods, which are beneficial to keep us fueled and our post-meal insulin levels within a desirable range. 4oz/113g of skinned turkey breast will provide 30-35g of protein. So if you are looking for a food to increase protein intake, here you go.

In addition to protein, all B vitamins are present in turkey meat, including B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12, folate, biotin, and choline. Turkey is an excellent source of vitamin B3 (niacin) and provides over 80% of the Dietary Reference Intake (DRI) of it in 113grams. B6 54% DRI in 113g. Overall, turkey provides a good amount of B vitamins, which are beneficial for a balanced nervous system and also for digestion and skin.

In terms of minerals, turkey is richest in selenium and provides over 60% of the DRI in a single 113g serving. Zinc, copper, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, and iron are also provided.

It is important to care about animal welfare. Appropriate housing, water, and feed do not only keep the animal happy and healthy, it produces also a healthier meal richer in nutrients. A pasture-raised turkey which was able to enjoy omega-3 containing plants and insects in natural pasture settings will contain a higher omega-3 content for you as well. Check out local farms to support animal welfare and small farmers.

What is L-Tryptophan?

On the most fundamental level, tryptophan is an essential amino acid required to make many different proteins in the body. L-tryptophan rich foods are supposed to have a calming, relaxing effect. However, the big food coma following a Thanksgiving feast isn’t the result of L-tryptophan rather the consequences of overeating and the indulgence of meals and desserts too high in carbohydrates. Eating too much at one meal overwhelms the digestion and takes a lot of energy. Refined carbohydrates might also cause blood glucose spikes with the following energy crash.