I get asked about chicken and its value as a gym food staple a lot (so much so that sometimes I feel like the Colonel Sanders of the gym world).
I guess all these questions come from the drive that a lot of gym ladies and gentlemen have to pound down high protein foods.
In this light, you can expect to consume 31 grammes of protein per 100 grammes of meat (which is a lot), if you for the skinless, boneless bird, whilst taking in 3.6 grammes of fat in the same serving (along with 239 calories, which is not so bad).
Also, chicken has less saturated fat than most red meat (though it is also high in cholesterol).
Apart from the protein and fats, chicken provides selenium, which contains antioxidants that help control free radicals and improves the performance of the immune system.
Not so bad at the present time, right?
The healthiest cut of fresh chicken is white breast meat, which has less cholesterol than the dark meat legs and wings.
Chicken breast is also lower in saturated fats.
Plus, chicken is rich in vitamins and minerals, with its B vitamins useful in preventing cataracts and skin disorders, boosting immunity, eliminating weakness, regulating digestion and improving the nervous system.
Also not so bad, right now!
Meanwhile, the vitamin D in chicken helps in calcium absorption and bone strengthening, whilst its vitamin A helps strengthen eyesight and its iron is helpful in haemoglobin formation, muscle activity and eliminating anaemia.
Finally, the potassium and sodium in chicken are electrolytes; whilst its phosphorus helps tackle weakness, improve bone health, brain function, dental care and metabolic issues.
Studies have found that for chicken (and fish) eaters, the risk of developing colorectal cancer in later life is reduced, though additional research is needed in this area.
So, there you have it on the protein and nutrient bomb that is chicken.
Enjoy!