By far one of the most popular protein sources consumed by those who are looking to improve their health and build lean muscle mass is chicken breast. Chicken breast is a lean source of protein that’s very easy to prepare and can be cooked so many different ways that you can rest assured your taste buds will never get bored.
Let’s take a closer look at the nutrient values for chicken so you can see why it’s such a wise decision to include this into your daily diet.
Major Nutrients Found In Chicken
The first major nutrient that you’re going to take in when consuming chicken breast is tryptophan, which is a specific amino acid that is actually going to help relax the body and make you feel slightly sleepy. Turkey is another meat that is very high in this nutrient and why very often after your Christmas dinner you’ll feel as though you want to take a nap.
Second, chicken is an excellent source of the nutrient niacin, which has been shown to help protect the body against Alzheimer’s disease and other age-related mental declines that sometimes occur in select individuals.
Finally, chicken is a good source of vitamin B6, which is one of the B-vitamins that is especially important for maintaining steady energy levels.
Storing/Selecting
When selecting your chicken breasts you’ll want to try and find ones that have a very plump shape to them as this indicates they’ll be tender and are of high quality. The skin of the chicken breast that you’re purchasing should also be opaque rather than spotted, so that’s something else to look out for if you are purchasing it with the skin on.
If you choose to purchase your chicken frozen, just double check that there are no signs of freezer burn on the chicken as this will be a good indicator freshness.
When storing your chicken breast, make sure you store it in the coolest section of the fridge and freeze it if you’re not going to use it within 2-3 days.
Eat It With:
Chicken can be served in any number of ways and is most commonly grilled, baked, poached, or stir-fried and is best when eaten along side fresh vegetables, brown rice, whole wheat pasta, sweet potatoes or yams, or just on top of a simple green salad.
Burn Off Calories In Chicken
To burn off the number of calories in a chicken breast you would have to do:
- 14 minutes of running
- 16 minutes of beach volleyball
- 12 minutes of rock climbing
- 21 minutes of golf
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