Chicken, a white meat rich in vitamins

Chicken is a type of poultry that is now widely consumed by the French population. It is interesting for more than one reason. Indeed, not only is it cheaper than red meat, but it is also generally less fatty. Nevertheless, it remains rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Chicken, a white meat rich in vitamins

Nutritional value of chicken


Chicken is a relatively low-calorie white meat, as a 100-gram serving is only 175 calories. Of these 100 grams, there are 30 grams of protein and less than 5 grams of fat with no more than 1.5 grams of saturated fatty acids (globally as much as mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids). Such a portion of chicken also contains less than 1 g of cholesterol.


Chicken, white meat rich in minerals


It is generally not well known, but chicken is meat particularly rich in minerals.
In fact, this white meat contains a large amount of phosphorus, which is involved in the development and maintenance of healthy teeth and bones, in the growth and regeneration of tissues, and the control of blood pH balance.
Chicken is also a source of Zinc. Although it is mainly found in the brown parts, it is also present in chicken breast. Zinc is essential for the proper functioning of the immune system and the proper balance of thyroid, sexual, and pancreatic hormones (insulin in particular).


Also, chicken is an important source of selenium. This mineral, which is also indispensable, plays an antioxidant role. Thus, selenium helps to fight against the free radicals responsible for certain pathologies, including certain cancers. Besides, it participates in the synthesis of thyroid hormones.
Finally, chicken contains iron (which is easier to assimilate than iron of plant origin), magnesium, potassium, and copper.

Chicken, a good source of vitamins


Chicken is also a good source of B-group vitamins. Indeed, it is particularly rich in vitamin B3 and vitamin B6 but also in vitamin B1, B2, B5, and B12.

Vitamin B3, niacin, is involved in the formation of red blood cells, neurotransmitters (messengers of nerve impulses) as well as in the manufacture of sex hormones. It also plays an important role in the metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids. In particular, it reduces the synthesis of bad cholesterol and therefore reduces the blood level of triglycerides. Also, it is involved in the transport of oxygen to the cells.

As for vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), present in large quantities in chicken, it is a coenzyme that is involved in the metabolism of proteins and fatty acids. Like B3, it participates in the manufacture of neurotransmitters and red blood cells. This vitamin also contributes to the proper functioning of the immune system. Besides, it is involved in the synthesis of glucose from glycogen.

That's not all, since chicken also contains vitamin B2 (riboflavin). This vitamin is essential for the cells because it allows them to produce energy. Also, it participates in the development of tissues and their healing.

Finally, chicken is well endowed with vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), which plays an active role in the production of certain hormones, neurotransmitters, and hemoglobin.