Increasing protein consumption has become a trending health topic recently. Are you meeting your needs?

The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) indicates a need for 0.36 grams of protein for every pound of body weight, equating to roughly 54 grams for an individual weighing 150 pounds. However, nutritionists are advocating for a higher protein intake, suggesting amounts between 60 and 90 grams per day.

Protein can be sourced from various foods, such as lentils (providing 23.6 grams per half-cup, according to the USDA), Greek yogurt (16.1 grams per serving), and meats like ground turkey (34.9 grams per cup).

Nutritionists emphasize that these options can assist in meeting your protein requirements, among other health perks. Ground turkey, in particular, is praised for its versatility and affordability.

Jessica Wilson, MS, RD and the founder of The Helpful Dietitian, shares that “Ground turkey, which often combines dark and white meat, works wonderfully in a range of dishes, including tacos, burgers, and spaghetti sauce,” with YSL News.

Discover how incorporating ground turkey and other ground meats can assist you in achieving your health goals.

Is ground turkey a healthy option?

A cup of cooked ground turkey typically contains around 274 calories and nearly 35 grams of protein, along with several vital vitamins and minerals.

Wilson further notes that it’s “lower in fat when compared to other ground meats and is quite simple to prepare.” Although this ease of preparation isn’t a direct nutritional advantage, choosing healthy foods that fit your lifestyle is crucial for overall health.

However, from a flavor perspective, Wilson points out that ground turkey can sometimes be “drier and less tasty” than ground beef, which may necessitate adding “extra ingredients to boost moisture and flavor, particularly in recipes like turkey burgers.”

Which ground meat is the healthiest?

Many registered dietitians agree that the term “healthy” varies from person to person. Different types of ground meats bring their unique benefits, and there is no universal method to a healthy diet.

When choosing ground meat, Wilson advises taking your personal health goals and budget into account before making a purchase at the grocery store.

“From a health standpoint, selecting leaner choices, such as 93% lean over 80% lean, generally results in less fat and fewer calories, which can be beneficial for heart health and weight management,” she explains. “While both turkey and beef have lean options, ground turkey is frequently more economical, making it an excellent choice for those aiming to maintain a balanced diet on a budget.”