What comes to mind when you think “healthy diet?” Maybe it’s the calorie count on a food label or the type of ingredients incorporated into a recipe. Maybe you think about serving size or the number of fruits and veggies on the plate. Dare we even mention counting your macros?

Point being, there is no silver bullet when it comes to managing your diet, and finding the right foods for your body can often feel overwhelming. Thankfully, when cooking turkey, you can take the guesswork out of it!

Turkey is naturally loaded with essential vitamins and nutrients that make it a prime choice for the center of your plate. No matter how you slice it, turkey is a lean protein that you can count on as part of a well-balanced diet. As we celebrate Turkey Lovers’ Month, we are diving a little deeper into turkey’s nutritional value and what makes it the optimal choice for any meal.

Nutrients

Nutrient-dense foods, such as turkey, provide nourishment essential for growth and healthy development. Turkey is naturally low in fat and provides immune-boosting nutrients such as iron, zinc, potassium and chromium. Additionally, the vitamins and minerals found in turkey, including niacin, B6 and riboflavin, help with building healthy bones and teeth.

Satisfaction

Feel full longer with foods that are guaranteed to settle your hunger. Turkey is packed with lean protein to satisfy your appetite and keep you feeling full longer. Protein is essential to build and repair cells, curb snacking urges and can even lower the risk of stroke. Did you know that one serving of turkey (equal to 3 oz.) provides 50 percent the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) of protein?

Taste

Don’t sacrifice taste for nutritional value. When it comes to turkey, you can have both! Turkey takes on the flavor of spices and ingredients used to season it, and turkey’s versatility makes it a utility player on the stovetop, oven or grill. Turkey can also be substituted in many recipes for chicken or as a leaner option compared to pork or ground beef with small adjustments in cooking time.

Sticking to smart eating habits is just one part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Incorporating wholesome, nutrient-dense foods, such as turkey, into your daily routine can help ensure you get the nourishment you need while providing the taste and convenience you love. For delicious turkey recipes, head over to ServeTurkey.Org.