White or dark meat? Health experts weigh in on the great Thanksgiving debate

People are still gobbling on about this one.With Thanksgiving on the horizon, the annual debate over white and dark turkey meat is once again heating up.According to a 2023 YouGov poll, white meat reigns supreme as the American favorite — getting 43% percent of the vote compared to the 22% who support dark meat.An estimated one in four enjoy both.Part of the reason, perhaps, is because white meat is traditionally thought of as a more healthy option — with one 3 ounce serving containing a whopping 25 grams of protein and 4 grams of fat, according to Healthline.But while less lean than its counterpart, dark meat is far from the worst thing to be eating, experts say.“While turkey fat is mostly unsaturated, there is a slightly higher amount of saturated fat in dark meat,” registered dietitian Maggie Lyon told the Huffington Post.However, that higher fat is responsible for a “more robust flavor,” Lyon told the outlet, mentioning that “some people with heart health concerns may want to limit” their helpings.Positively, though, it is also filled with good-for-you elements like iron, zinc, and several vitamins.

On top of that, dark meat’s fat content is primarily found in its skin, according to Today.Other experts take the position about one in four surveyed individuals did last year.“I love balancing my plate with the protein that turkey offers and select both white and dark meat, skin removed,” registered dietitian nutritionist Caroline Susie told HuffPo.Lyon agrees with the stance as well.She says one day of feeling extra full won’t ruin your life.“There’s no need to deprive yourself of the foods you love,” Lyon told the publication.

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