Chicken or fish: which is healthier?

Following a healthy, balanced diet puts chicken and fish at the top of your list of choices, especially if you’re looking for good sources of lean protein.

After all, our bodies need protein to function properly. These two healthy food options provide our bodies with the nine essential amino acids that they cannot produce on their own.

At the same time, thanks to the protein, you feel full for a longer period of time. In fact, if you combine eating good protein from fish or chicken after strength training, you will strengthen your body so that it does not lose valuable muscle mass.

In addition, you will get B vitamins and selenium from fish and chicken. Essential for energy metabolism, mental health, immune and reproductive systems, as well as proper thyroid function.

Can we talk about a possible comparison between chicken and fish? Let’s see their benefits in detail.

What are the health benefits of chicken?

First, chicken provides us with good animal protein, and according to our research, it can help maintain weight and metabolism. Other research data has linked chicken consumption to a lower risk of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

Depending on which part of the chicken we choose to eat, we will also receive some different nutrients. The breast (white meat) is rich in niacin (B3), while the thighs and legs (dark meat) contain more iron, selenium and zinc.

Pros include minimal fat, if any, in chicken breasts (if eaten without the skin) and lower calories (about 128 calories per 3-ounce serving) than cooked breasts. On the other hand, chicken thighs and legs contain more fat and calories (164 calories per 3-ounce serving).

How does fish benefit the body?

In this case, we have a very good source of lean protein. However, fish also contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are valuable for health. Omega-3 fatty acids promote heart health, control inflammation and improve mental health. Get omega-3 from fish and shellfish such as salmon, tuna, sardines, mackerel, herring, anchovies and white fish.

Fish also follows the same logic of low calories and saturated fat. 85 grams of salmon will give you only 121 calories. Plus, it will shower you with nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, potassium and magnesium.

Finally chicken or fish?

Obviously, chicken and fish should be part of a healthy and balanced diet. In short, you can choose chicken for more iron, zinc, selenium and vitamin B3 and fish for calcium, phosphorus and omega-3 fatty acids. Both are essential for the proper functioning of your body. But don’t forget to always pay attention to how you cook them. – Preferably grilled chicken or fish rather than fried. This way you will benefit from their nutritional value without loading your body with bad fats.

source: Vita