Chicken or turkey? All the differences you need to know!
White meat is often considered a healthier choice than red meat for those trying to maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle. Among the most communiate options are chicken and turkey, two foods rich in protein and low in fat that are ideal for balanced diets. But which to choose between the two? What are the differences and reasons for preferring one over the other? Let's find out together.
Nutritional values
Chicken and turkey: two excellent options for a healthy, balanced diet. Although they have very similar nutritional profiles, they have some differences that may influence your choice.
- Protein: Both birds offer an excellent protein profile, but turkey stands out for its slightly higher protein content. Specifically, 100 grams of turkey breast provides about 29 grams of protein, compared to 25 for chicken. This characteristic makes turkey an ideal choice for those who wish to increase the protein intake in their diet.
- Fat: In terms of fat content, turkey stands out for its leanness. A turkey breast contains about 1 gram of fat, while chicken breast has about 2-3 grams. This slight difference can make a difference for those on a low-fat diet or who want to reduce their calorie intake.
- Calories: For those counting calories, both chicken and turkey are valuable allies. Turkey, at about 104 calories per 100 grams, is slightly lower in calories than chicken (110 calories per 100 grams). However, the difference is so minimal that both meats can be included in a low-calorie regimen.
- Sodium: One of the main differences between chicken and turkey concerns the sodium content: turkey contains less. This characteristic makes it particularly suitable for those on a low-salt diet, helping to keep blood pressure under control.
Taste
The choice between chicken and turkey also depends on personal taste. If you prefer intense, bold flavors, chicken is an ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer milder flavors and leaner meat, turkey may be more suitable.
- Chicken meat, especially in the thighs, is tender and juicy, giving an intense flavor. It is ideal for those who enjoy savory dishes, but should be enjoyed in moderation, especially if you choose to eat it with the skin on.
- Turkey has a milder flavor than chicken, which can be an advantage for those who prefer less intense flavors. However, its drier meat may require the use of marinades or more flavorful side dishes.
When to choose chicken and when to choose turkey?
For low-calorie diets both chicken and turkey are good choices, but turkey, due to its slightly higher protein content and lower fat content, can offer you an added advantage. Choose turkey or chicken breast for high-quality protein and low calories.
- For those who want to reduce sodium: Turkey, with its lower sodium content than chicken, is an excellent choice for those on a low-sodium diet.
- For greater versatility: Chicken's versatility in cooking is undeniable, thanks to its texture and mild flavor that is suitable for many preparations.
- For those seeking rest support: Turkey, rich in tryptophan, an amino acid precursor of serotonin, can promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.
Conclusion:
The choice between chicken and turkey is influenced by multiple factors, including individual nutritional needs and taste preferences. Both meats, rich in lean protein, offer numerous health benefits. Turkey, with its slightly higher protein content, is particularly suitable for those on a low-calorie diet. Chicken, because of its versatility in cooking, is suitable for a wide variety of culinary preparations.
In either case, by incorporating these white meats into your diet, you will be making a healthy and balanced choice.
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