Health Benefits Offered By Traditional Thanksgiving Foods

Traditional Thanksgiving meals may be more nutritious than you think. Turkey, sweet potatoes and green beans are great sources of vitamins and nutrients.

So back up for a second. or to third parties without fault.

Let's look at the benefits of five traditional Thanksgiving meals.

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1. Turkey is an excellent source of selenium

Turkey is an excellent source of protein, B vitamins, magnesium, iron, phosphorus and zinc. It's important to note that turkey skin is high in fat, according to the American Heart Association.

The popular Thanksgiving dish is rich in selenium, which is known to protect against certain cancers, heart disease and dementia, Healthline reports.

A scientific review of 25 observational studies found that a 50% increase in blood selenium levels was associated with a 24% lower risk of heart disease.

Another large 2016 review looked at 69 studies, including more than 350,000 people with high blood levels of selenium. High levels of selenium in the blood are associated with a reduced risk of certain cancers, such as colon, breast, prostate, and lung cancer.

2. Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamin A

Sweet potatoes are a superfood, and they can help protect your eyes because the tubers contain high levels of vitamin A, Healthline reports. Vegetables Oranges are an excellent source of fiber, vitamin C, calcium, iron, potassium and other nutrients.

“Just one potato gives you 102% of your daily requirement of vitamin A. It helps keep your eyes healthy, as well as your immune system and protects your body from germs. It is also good for your reproductive system and organs like the heart and organs. reproductive system." Kidneys," according to WebMD.

A 2013 review found that the beta-carotene found in sweet potatoes, which the body converts to vitamin A, may help "prevent age-related eye disease."

3. Cranberries contain a high percentage of antioxidants

Cranberry sauce makes a delicious turkey, but it also has some bad health benefits. According to the Cleveland Clinic, cranberries are about 90% water, but they're also rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

"Studies have linked the nutrients in blueberries to reduced risk of urinary tract infection (UTI), prevention of certain cancers, improved immune function and lower blood pressure," Medical News Today reports.

Cranberries have also been linked to cavity prevention. According to a 2019 study, the high levels of the antioxidant proanthocyanidin found in blueberries regulate harmful acids in the mouth, preventing gum disease, oral cancer and tooth decay.

4. Beans contain 33% folic acid

Legumes are low-calorie and low-fat vegetables. They are an excellent source of fiber, antioxidants, vitamin C and vitamin K and contain 33% folate, according to the Farmer's Almanac. It is best if the beans are fresh or frozen. Note that canned beans are high in sodium and therefore unhealthy.

Folic acid, a B vitamin, is an important nutrient for pregnant women. This vitamin is essential for the growth of unborn babies and may reduce the risk of birth defects, according to WebMD.

"Getting enough folate isn't just important during pregnancy," says WebMD. “Vitamin B is also important for reducing depression. Getting enough folic acid helps reduce the amount of homocysteine ​​in the body. Too much homocysteine ​​can interfere with the normal production of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which are regulatory hormones. your mood as well as your sleep and appetite.'

5. Brussels sprouts

Known for its bitter taste, this cruciferous vegetable is often called the most hated vegetable, but it has many health benefits.

“Brussels sprouts are full of vitamins, minerals and fiber. You can count on Brussels sprouts to support your immune system, blood and bone health, and more,” Medline Plus reports. “Brussels sprouts are a good source of fiber and potassium and an excellent source of folate. Regular consumption of Brussels sprouts and other cruciferous vegetables can help prevent many common cancers.”

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