The Role of Poultry Meat in Balanced Diet

Poultry can be defined as domestic fowls, including chickens, turkeys, geese and ducks, raised for the production of meat or eggs and the word is also used for the flesh of these birds used as food. (Source: Wikipedia)

According to Food & Nutrition Research 59 (1), 27606, 2015: Role of poultry meat in a balanced diet aimed at maintaining health and wellbeing: an Italian consensus document

The research mentions – ‘A variable but moderate energy content, highly digestible proteins (with low levels of collagen) of good nutritional quality, unsaturated lipids (mainly found in the skin and easily removed), B-group vitamins (mainly thiamin, vitamin B6, and pantothenic acid), and minerals (like iron, zinc, and copper) make poultry meat a valuable food.’

The research also further states – ‘Epidemiological studies performed across the world, in highly diverse populations with different food preferences and nutritional habits, provide solid information on the association between poultry consumption, within a balanced diet, and good health. Consumption of poultry meat, as part of a vegetable-rich diet, is associated with a risk reduction of developing overweight and obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Also, white meat (and poultry in particular) is considered moderately protective or neutral on cancer risk.’

This important research in the field of food and nutrition also brings to the forefront some important insights related to consumption of poultry meat – ‘The relevance of poultry meat for humans also has been recognized by the UN Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), who considers this widely available, relatively inexpensive food to be particularly useful in developing countries, where it can help to meet shortfalls in essential nutrients. Moreover, poultry meat consumption also contributes to the overall quality of the diet in specific ages and conditions (prior to conception, during pregnancy up to the end of breastfeeding, during growth, and in the geriatric age) and is suitable for those who have an increased need for calorie and protein compared to the general population.’

Pasture-raised chickens have higher antioxidant and omega-3 levels. (Source: healthline)

A difference is made by the cooking method of chicken in its nutrients content, inclusion of other food ingredients while cooking chicken enhances the meat with nutrients and flavour.

Valuable Recipes of Poultry Meat of Chicken to include in your Balanced Diet Meals to make your Meals Delicious and Nutritious:

https://masalahealth.wordpress.com/category/chicken-recipes/