6 Delicious, Nutritious Reasons Turkey is Terrific

Thanksgiving is only two weeks away, and my mouth is already watering, just thinking about the tasty turkey feast. Turkey is so delicious—and healthy, too. So why does it seem that we only enjoy it on Thanksgiving? Turkey meat contributes generous portions of a half-dozen important nutrients. Here’s the lowdown on the big six:

ü Vitamin B₃ (niacin). This vitamin helps produce energy in all the cells of your body. If you don’t get enough, you may become mentally disorientated or may suffer from diarrhea.

ü Vitamin B₆. It helps convert an amino acid into serotonin, an important brain chemical that affects your mood.

ü Vitamin B₁₂. This nutrient works in conjunction with folate and folic acid to make red blood cells.

ü Iron. You know the deal on this one: If you don’t meet your iron requirements, you may feel tired and lethargic.

ü Phosphorus. This is one busy mineral. Next to calcium, phosphorus is the most abundant mineral in your bones and teeth. It also helps generate energy in your body’s cells and helps regulate metabolism in your organs.

ü Zinc. Several studies have shown that this mineral is essential for a strong immune system.

I’m sure you already know the most obvious (and delicious!) way to serve your whole turkey, but what can you make with the leftovers? Try these Terrific Turkey Salad Sandwiches. A thin layer of cream cheese and the most delicious pumpernickel bread you can find will make this recipe a day after Thanksgiving tradition:

½ pound of turkey breast, cooked and finely chopped

¼ cup of low-fat mayonnaise

¼ cup of finely chopped celery

¼ cup of finely chopped red onion

¼ cup of dried chopped cranberries

2 tablespoons of low-fat cream cheese

8 slices of pumpernickel bread

In a medium bowl, mix the turkey, mayonnaise, celery, onion, and cranberries. Divide the cream cheese equally among 4 slices of the bread. Top each slice with one-quarter of the turkey salad and another slice of the bread. (Yield: 4 servings.)

Enjoy!