The advantages of duck meat are a well kept secret, one that is increasingly becoming widely known. There is the misconception that duck meat is fat or because it is poultry, considered white meat. Because neither are right, we'd like to set the record straight by listing just a few of the reasons why you should gravitate towards duck meat and products. They include:
- Lean Protein: One of the standout features of duck meat is its lean protein content. Unlike other meats, duck is relatively low in fat. For example, it contains only 23% of fat whereas chicken contains 40% making it an excellent choice for those aiming to maintain a healthy weight or reduce their fat intake. The lean protein not only aids in satiety and muscle development but also supports overall heart health. It is crucial for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and maintaining a strong immune system. Incorporating it into your diet ensures your body receives the necessary amino acids to function at its best.
- Vitamins: Duck is packed with essential nutrients such as vitamin E, niacin and selenium, with one serving providing more than 20 percent of a person’s daily recommended intake. Duck meat is a much better source of vitamin K and vitamin A. It is particularly rich in B vitamins, including thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and vitamin B12. These vitamins play a vital role in energy production, nerve function, and red blood cell formation, ensuring your body operates at its peak performance.
- Essential Fatty Acids: Duck meat boasts a unique fatty acid profile that contributes to cardiovascular health. The composition of fatty acids sets it apart from other meats and offers potential benefits for heart health. One important aspect of the fatty acid profile is its omega-3 fatty acid content. These fatty acids reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and improve overall heart function. While fish is often lauded as the primary source of omega-3 fatty acids, duck meat also contains appreciable levels of these beneficial fats. Additionally, this poultry contains monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) that support cardiovascular health. MUFAs, such as oleic acid, have been associated with reducing LDL cholesterol levels and improving insulin sensitivity. PUFAs, including linoleic acid, are linked to reducing the risk of heart disease and improving lipid profiles.
- Iron. Duck meat is an excellent source of iron, providing 50% of the iron we need in a day. Iron helps make healthy blood that flows through our bodies, giving us energy and making us grow. If you are looking to build muscle, boost brain development or support a healthy immune system, then you want to pump some iron into your diet. Duck can help you do this because it contains more iron per serving than chicken, turkey, cornish game hen and even some cuts of beef.