What Are The Health Benefits of Thanksgiving Food?

Across the pond, Thanksgiving plans are in full swing, and like all holidays, food will be taking centre stage. Although many dishes on the table will be traditionally American, there are components of Thanksgiving dinner that we eat regularly as part of our everyday meals. What’s more, as well as being delicious, they’re highly nutritious, and there are plenty of health benefits of Thanksgiving food that our bodies will thank us for.

Turkey

Often the centrepiece of Thanksgiving dinner, turkey is low in fat and richer in protein than chicken. Because it supplies all nine essential amino acids that our bodies need for growth and repair, its protein is considered ‘high-quality’ and easy to access and use. Turkey also contains the B group of vitamins, such as B3, B6 and B12, which are needed to form red blood cells and maintain energy levels. When consumed, it also helps to support thyroid function and support our immune systems thanks to its rich mineral content. The darker cuts of meat are an excellent source of iron. At the same time, its tryptophan increases melatonin production and regulates your sleep cycle, making it the perfect food to eat before a Thanksgiving nap.

Mashed potatoes

Arguably the ultimate side dish to turkey, mashed potatoes are a good source of fibre, which is excellent for keeping us fuller for longer and keeping our blood sugar levels in check. Potatoes are also full of antioxidants that work to prevent chronic illnesses such as heart disease and cancer. In addition, they are a good source of potassium, which works with sodium to help balance the body’s fluid. Because they’re gluten-free, mashed potatoes are a real crowd-pleaser if you have any food intolerance sufferers at the dinner table. They are also suitable for vegans if they’re prepared with dairy-free ingredients.

Cranberry sauce

The fruitiness of cranberry sauce goes perfectly with turkey and adds a dose of vitamin E to your Thanksgiving dinner. Although it doesn’t contain any saturated or trans fats, it’s healthier when you make it yourself (think of Chandler in charge of the cranberries in Friends if you’re a fan!). However, shop-bought versions will still contain the fibre and antioxidants that make it a nutritious accompaniment.

Green bean casserole

Both delicious and low in calories, green bean casserole has an impressive resume of health benefits. As well as being a good source of soluble fibre, which can help to lower cholesterol and improve heart health, it’s full of antioxidants, including vitamin C, that helps to reduce cell damage. Green beans also contain calcium and high levels of vitamin K, which help reduce the risk of fractures by keeping your bones healthy and strong.

Pumpkin pie

Thanksgiving wouldn’t be right without a traditional dessert to finish dinner, and pumpkin pie is a firm favourite. The good news is that pumpkins are incredibly nutritious and a brilliant source of beta-carotene, which provides your body with vitamin A. This has several essential functions, such as helping your immune system to work correctly, keeping skin healthy and protecting your eyes against sight loss. They also contain antioxidants, vitamin C, potassium, copper, vitamin B2 and vitamin E, so they’re packed full of goodness. Even the seeds have high levels of iron, phosphorus and magnesium, so you get an extra health kick if you use them for decoration. See, there are plenty of health benefits to Thanksgiving food!