That all too familiar time of year is near, the time when turkeys are the trendiest bird on the scene. Turkey day is upon us but did you know while you are gorging yourself on that holiday feast you are also loading up on necessary nutrients found with the turkey.

History

The turkey finds its origin in Mexico and the United States and was a part of Native American culture. Christopher Columbus brought turkeys back to Europe in the 16th century so they could be enjoyed by many. Turkeys were then domestically raised in Italy, France and England. First only suitable for royalty it wasn't long before turkeys were a familiar accoutrement at social gatherings of commoners.

Health benefits

• Protein-turkey offers an excellent source of lean protein. A four ounce serving of turkey offers about 65% of your daily recommended protein while providing you with nearly half the saturated fat found in red meat. 3-ounce serving of skinless white meat contains 25 grams of protein, barely 3 grams of fat, and less than 1 gram of saturated fat.

• Low in fat-not just for holidays, people are reaching for turkey throughout the entire you as turkey is a healthier alternative to ground beef and can be replaced in familiar recipes (burgers, chili, lasagna, casseroles) for a low-fat option for you and your family.

• Vitamin B-a great source of niacin and Vitamin B6, two important vitamins necessary for energy production. Niacin helps to convert fats, proteins, and carbohydrates into usable energy while also assisting in blood sugar regulation.

• Selenium rich-an importance trace mineral like selenium can be found in turkey. Selenium has been linked to cancer prevention.

• Arginine-an essential amino acid can be found in turkey.

How to pick a turkey

When buying a turkey if possible buy organically raised which are superior to all other turkeys on the market. Although more expensive they have been raised without the use of hormones and antibiotics and fed an organically grown diet.

Turkeys with a plump, solid shape and rounded breast is what you should seek for your holiday bird. The skin should be white, unblemished, without cuts or bruises present. Always check the sell date when selecting your bird of choice.

Safe Handling

With any raw meat you need to be especially careful of handling. Always store at proper temperatures and cook thoroughly.

• Wash cutting board utensils used thoroughly with hot soap water (I often use gloves just to be safe when handling the raw turkey)
• If marinating turkey make sure done in refrigerator
• Defrost turkey in refrigerator
• Keep turkey isolated in refrigerator so cross contamination does not occur