R Pitchiah, Clinical Nutritionist, Fortis Malar Hospital talks about the benefits of consuming chicken
The coronavirus pandemic has brought a fear in each one of us and has made us reconsider the lifestyle we lead and the food we consume. Boosting immunity is the need of the hour and one of the best medicines is to eat protein-rich foods that have high nutritional value. Plant sources like soya, milk & milk products, beans and peanuts and animal sources such as eggs, fish, chicken and meat are good sources of protein.
Animal foods contain all the essential amino acids (EAA) thereby improving their biological and nutritional value of protein. These EAA are needed to synthesize new protein molecules. Whereas proteins from plant source do not contain all the EAA but in combination with certain foods (such as cereals), they can be considered as a complete protein source.
Chicken can provide protein, vitamins, and minerals. It continues to enjoy a large fan base across age groups and countries. Some facts about chicken that will get us grabbing our favorite meat for the next meal.
High Protein value
Chicken is one of the good sources of protein and low in fat naturally.
Chicken is rich in proteins and these proteins are the building blocks of muscles This recommended protein will fasten the recovery from general wound healing particularly after major surgery. Chicken thigh (without skin) portion has good source of protein than breast
Additionally, chicken also contains Vitamin B3 and B12. Niacin (B3) helps release energy and helps keep skin, nervous system and digestive system functioning properly. Vitamin B12 is needed to make new cells and to keep nerve cells healthy.
Low Fat
When compare with red meat, beef and organ meats saturated fat is less in chicken. So consuming recommended servings of chicken will not increase the bad cholesterol in the blood. Sensible cooking method will help the consumers to be healthy and fit. Grilled or microwave preparation of chicken is more advisable than kebab and or creamy one.
Also contains Selenium a trace mineral works with Vitamin E to prevent important body compounds from being destroyed.
Chicken must be cooked well to avoid food poisoning. Undercooked Chicken has been linked to Campylobacter bacteria and sometimes with Salmonella and Clostridium perfringens bacteria contamination. Further, combining Indian herbs and spices during pre-preparation and cooking can enhance the flavor, improve nutritional value and palatability of chicken.