It’s no secret that making smart food choices is directly linked to a healthy lifestyle. Full of protein, low in calories and fat and a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals, turkey is the “perfect protein” to incorporate into your daily diet to help reach your wellness goals.

High Source of Protein

Turkey is a great source of protein. This macronutrient is important for growth and maintenance of a healthy body. It helps the body produce more amino acids that build, maintain and restore muscle. Protein is also responsible for healthy blood cells, key enzymes and strengthening the immune system.

With any healthy lifestyle, watching the number of calories you consume daily can make or break your goals. Eating foods high in protein, like turkey, help you to feel fuller for longer, minimizing your calorie intake during the day. Protein also helps to maintain lean muscle in the body and can stabilize insulin levels after meals. It is recommended that you consume one lean protein source at each meal, which is super easy to do given turkey’s versatility!

Rich in Vitamins and Minerals

Turkey is loaded with essential vitamins and minerals. Containing selenium, phosphorus and B vitamins, daily servings of turkey help with tons of body functions that we don’t think about on a day-to-day basis. According to the Huffington Post, vitamins and minerals found in turkey help with building healthy bones and teeth, turning food into energy and red blood cell formation.

How to Add Turkey to Your Diet

Not only can you feel good about eating turkey, you can incorporate it into your diet no matter how much (or how little) time you have in a day. With many options to choose from such as fresh, sliced turkey breast, ground turkey, turkey breast, whole birds and more, there is no excuse not to have turkey on your menu. Turkey is easy to prepare and absorbs flavors from seasonings and marinades easily, making it ideal for various cuisines and palettes.

Turkey is easy to substitute for family favorites, including chili, tacos, pizza, burgers and so much more. Check out Serve Turkey for recipes, food safety tips and other reasons why turkey should be on your plate regularly!

When it comes to maintaining a well-balanced diet, don’t settle for less than the perfect protein. For more information on balanced eating, physical activity or healthy weight management, visit www.MyPlate.gov. And for some delicious turkey dishes to add goodness to your lifestyle, check out our best turkey recipes.