Are you a sausage enthusiast looking for a healthier alternative to traditional pork sausage? You’re not alone! Many health-conscious individuals are turning to chicken and turkey sausages as a way to reduce their fat and calorie intake But which one is truly the healthier option? Let’s dive into the nutritional showdown between chicken and turkey sausages to help you make an informed decision
The Calorie and Fat Showdown:
Round 1: Calories
- Chicken Sausage: A typical chicken sausage link packs around 140-160 calories.
- Turkey Sausage: Its counterpart, the turkey sausage, boasts a similar calorie count of 140-160 calories per link.
It’s a tie! Both chicken and turkey sausages come in neck-and-neck in the calorie department.
Round 2: Fat
- Chicken Sausage: A single chicken sausage link contains approximately 7-10 grams of fat.
- Turkey Sausage: Turkey sausage edges out chicken sausage with a slightly lower fat content of 7-8 grams per link.
Turkey sausage takes the lead! Although the difference is minimal, turkey sausage emerges as the winner in the fat category.
The Protein Powerhouse:
Round 3: Protein
- Chicken Sausage: A chicken sausage link delivers a respectable 12-14 grams of protein.
- Turkey Sausage: Turkey sausage packs a slightly higher protein punch with 13-15 grams per link.
Turkey sausage scores another point! Turkey sausage takes the crown in the protein category, offering a slightly higher amount of muscle-building protein.
The Sodium Showdown:
Round 4: Sodium
- Chicken Sausage: A chicken sausage link contains around 400-500 milligrams of sodium.
- Turkey Sausage: Turkey sausage clocks in with a similar sodium content of 400-500 milligrams per link.
It’s a draw! Both chicken and turkey sausages have comparable sodium levels, so watch out if you’re on a sodium-restricted diet.
The Nutritional Extras:
Beyond the basic macronutrients, let’s explore some additional nutritional aspects:
- Chicken Sausage: Chicken sausage is a good source of vitamins B6 and B12, as well as iron and zinc.
- Turkey Sausage: Turkey sausage is rich in selenium, a mineral that plays a crucial role in thyroid function and immune health.
Both contenders offer unique nutritional benefits. Choose the one that best aligns with your individual dietary needs.
The Verdict: A Close Call
So, which sausage reigns supreme? It’s a close call! Both chicken and turkey sausages offer significant advantages over traditional pork sausage in terms of calories, fat, and protein. Ultimately, the “healthier” choice depends on your specific dietary goals and preferences.
Consider these factors when making your decision:
- Calorie and fat content: If you’re watching your calorie and fat intake, turkey sausage might be a better option.
- Protein content: If you’re looking for a protein boost, turkey sausage takes the lead.
- Sodium content: Be mindful of the sodium content of both sausages if you’re on a sodium-restricted diet.
- Nutritional extras: Consider the additional vitamins and minerals offered by each sausage to make an informed choice.
Remember, moderation is key! Even though both chicken and turkey sausages are healthier alternatives to pork sausage, they should still be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Additional Resources:
- Is Turkey Sausage Healthier Than Chicken Sausage? (https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/turkey-sausage-vs-chicken-sausage)
- Chicken Sausage vs. Turkey Sausage: Which Is Healthier? (https://www.webmd.com/diet/features/chicken-sausage-vs-turkey-sausage)
- The Best and Worst Sausages for Your Health (https://www.eatthis.com/best-and-worst-sausages/)
Work with Your Clients in MyNetDiary Diet Apps
Seamlessly connect with clients, access food & exercise log, analyze trends, and provide feedback.
What is turkey sausage good for?
FAQ
What is the healthiest sausage to eat?
Is turkey sausage actually healthy?
Is chicken sausage actually healthy?
What is the best sausage for a diet?
Are turkey & chicken sausage good for You?
They can add some protein and flavor to these dishes, and they can also be a good way to use up some leftovers. Turkey and chicken sausage are both lower in calories and fat than traditional pork sausage, and they are also a good source of protein. They are also a good option for those who are trying to eat a healthier diet.
What are the health benefits of ground turkey?
Ground turkey has multiple benefits. It is a good source of minerals, and B vitamins, rich in proteins, low in fat and it is lower in calories than common turkey.
Is turkey sausage bad for You?
It is lower in calories, saturated fat, and cholesterol than pork sausage .Turkey sausage is also a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth . However, some
Is turkey sausage better than chicken sausage?
Many people prefer turkey sausage because it is lower in fat and calories than chicken sausage. Some people also find that turkey sausage has a more pleasing taste. Others prefer chicken sausage because it is higher in protein and iron. Ultimately, the choice of which sausage to use comes down to personal preference.