Chicken gizzards are a popular ingredient in many traditional dishes around the world, and are often considered a delicacy. They are the muscular stomachs of chickens and other fowl, and are often used in stews, soups, and other dishes. But beyond their culinary uses, what is the nutritional value of chicken gizzards, and are they healthy for you to eat?
In terms of nutrition, chicken gizzards are an excellent source of protein, with a 100-gram serving providing nearly 20 grams of protein. This is around 40% of the recommended daily intake for the average adult. They are also a good source of iron, providing around 20% of the recommended daily intake in a 100-gram serving.
Chicken gizzards are also a rich source of B vitamins, including Vitamin B12, which is essential for maintaining healthy nerve cells and for the production of red blood cells. A 100-gram serving of chicken gizzards provides nearly 100% of the recommended daily intake of Vitamin B12. Additionally, they also contain a significant amount of Vitamin B6 which is important in the production of neurotransmitters and red blood cells.
Another important nutrient found in chicken gizzards is zinc, which is essential for maintaining a healthy immune system and for wound healing. A 100-gram serving of chicken gizzards provides around 20% of the recommended daily intake of zinc.
In terms of fat content, chicken gizzards are relatively low in fat, with a 100-gram serving providing around 3 grams of total fat. However, it’s worth noting that chicken gizzards are high in cholesterol, with a 100-gram serving providing around 600 milligrams.
When it comes to whether or not chicken gizzards are healthy for you, it really depends on your overall diet and lifestyle. If you’re trying to watch your cholesterol levels, it may be best to limit your intake of chicken gizzards. However, if you’re not at risk of high cholesterol and are looking for a good source of protein and B vitamins, chicken gizzards can be a healthy addition to your diet.
It’s also worth noting that the way chicken gizzards are prepared can have an impact on their nutritional value. Fried chicken gizzards, for example, will be higher in fat and calories than gizzards that are boiled or steamed. So, if you’re looking to make chicken gizzards a regular part of your diet, it’s important to be mindful of how you prepare them.
In conclusion, chicken gizzards are a good source of protein, B vitamins, and iron. They are relatively low in fat, but are high in cholesterol. Whether or not chicken gizzards are healthy for you will depend on your overall diet and lifestyle, as well as how they are prepared. So, If you’re looking to incorporate chicken gizzards into your diet, it’s important to be mindful of your overall cholesterol intake and to be mindful of how they are prepared.