Chicken heart is one of the most characteristic and popular components in the diet of many people. This nutritious organ, which is commonly used in traditional and modern foods, contains large amounts of protein, vitamins and minerals essential for the body. The properties of chicken heart are very wide and include strengthening the immune system, increasing energy, improving the health of skin and hair, and strengthening the function of muscles and joints. In addition, chicken heart can help reduce fatigue, strengthen the heart and help digestion. This article examines the many properties of chicken heart and shows why this nutrient can be useful and effective in the daily diet.
Properties of chicken hearts
Strengthen the immune system
Chicken heart contains large amounts of minerals such as iron and zinc, both of which play an important role in strengthening the immune system. Iron is essential for the production of hemoglobin in the blood and helps the body carry oxygen to the cells. On the other hand, zinc is known as an essential mineral for cell growth and tissue repair. These two minerals are present in chicken hearts to a significant extent and can help strengthen the body’s defense against diseases.
Increase energy and reduce fatigue
One of the prominent features of chicken heart is its high amount of vitamin B12. This vitamin plays an important role in the body’s energy production and can help reduce the feeling of fatigue. Athletes and people who need more energy can benefit from this vitamin in chicken liver. Research shows that taking B12 can help improve athletic performance and endurance. In addition, this vitamin helps to produce melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep, thus improving the quality of sleep.
Improve skin and hair health
Due to its high content of protein, vitamins and minerals, chicken heart can have positive effects on skin and hair health. The proteins in chicken heart help to build and repair skin cells. In addition, iron and zinc in chicken heart strengthen hair follicles and can prevent hair loss. Also, vitamin B12 in chicken heart helps to maintain the natural color of hair and prevents premature graying.
Strengthen muscles and joints
Consuming chicken liver is useful for people who do heavy sports or are rebuilding their muscles after an injury. This meat is rich in protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. In addition, chicken liver contains amino acids that can help rebuild muscle tissues after heavy training or injuries. Also, the presence of zinc and iron in chicken hearts helps to strengthen the body’s immune system and prevent joint diseases and arthritis.
Support heart health
Although chicken hearts may be of concern to some people due to their high level of cholesterol, their moderate consumption can have many benefits for heart health. Chicken hearts contain healthy fats that can help maintain cardiovascular health. Due to the presence of omega-3 fatty acids, consuming chicken heart can help reduce inflammation and prevent heart diseases.
Anti-inflammatory properties
Due to the presence of anti-inflammatory compounds such as zinc and vitamin B12, chicken heart can help reduce inflammation in the body. This feature is especially useful for people with chronic inflammatory diseases such as arthritis. Regular consumption of chicken heart can help relieve joint pain and reduce swelling
Dealing with anemia
Due to its high absorbability, the iron in chicken heart can be effective in treating and preventing anemia. Anemia is one of the common diseases among different people that can cause excessive weakness and fatigue. Consuming chicken heart can help improve the condition of people suffering from anemia and increase the level of hemoglobin in the blood.
Helping to digest food better
Due to its high content of protein and nutrients, chicken heart can help improve the digestion process. This meat can be a good choice especially for people who have a sensitive digestive system or suffer from digestive disorders. The proteins in the chicken heart help maintain the normal function of the stomach and intestines
Reducing food waste and environmental impacts
Consuming chicken heart helps to reduce food waste. Considering that many people throw away different parts of animals, using chicken heart as a useful protein source can help preserve natural resources and reduce negative impacts on the environment. This issue is also significant from the ethical and environmental aspects
Disadvantages of chicken heart
High cholesterol
Chicken hearts contain a high amount of cholesterol, which can be harmful for people with heart problems or high blood cholesterol levels. Excessive consumption of cholesterol-rich meats may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Therefore, people who suffer from heart diseases should be careful in consuming chicken hearts and preferably use it with the advice of a doctor.
high fat
Although chicken heart is a good source of protein, it is also relatively high in fat. There are approximately 11.5 grams of fat per 100 grams of chicken heart, of which 3.28 grams are saturated fat. High consumption of saturated fats can increase the risk of heart disease and increase the level of bad blood cholesterol (LDL). For this reason, people who are at risk of heart problems or who follow a low-fat diet should avoid consuming a lot of chicken hearts.
Purine content and its effects on gout
Due to its high purine content, chicken heart can be problematic for people with gout. Purines are compounds that break down in the body and increase uric acid levels. In people with gout, this increase in uric acid can lead to painful joint attacks. Therefore, the consumption of chicken hearts should be limited for those who have gout or have a history of attacks of this disease
Possible contamination
If chicken hearts are not properly stored and cooked, they may become contaminated with bacteria or viruses, which can increase the risk of gastrointestinal diseases. Consuming raw or undercooked chicken hearts can lead to diseases such as salmonella or canopacter. To prevent this problem, chicken hearts should be cooked completely to reduce the risk of contamination
Food sensitivities
Some people may be allergic to the protein in chicken hearts. Allergy symptoms can include digestive problems such as stomach pain, diarrhea, or even more severe allergic reactions. For this reason, people who are allergic to certain protein foods should avoid chicken hearts
Effect on people who take medicine
People who take certain medications, especially non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or blood pressure lowering drugs, should be careful when consuming chicken liver. Chicken liver can interact with some of these drugs and cause side effects. To avoid these problems, it is necessary to consult a doctor before consuming chicken hearts
High sodium content
Although chicken hearts are naturally low in sodium, adding salt or other flavorings during cooking can increase sodium intake. High sodium intake can increase the risk of high blood pressure and heart disease. Therefore, people who are prone to high blood pressure should be careful in using chicken hearts
Lack of variety in diet
While chicken hearts are an excellent source of protein, constant consumption of chicken hearts alone may lead to a lack of variety in the diet. Variety in food consumption is very important to get all the essential nutrients. Therefore, it is better to consume chicken heart along with other protein sources and vegetables and use varied diets
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